The Impact of Excess Body Weight on Cancer Risk and Urinary Health in Men

Excess body weight is a significant global health concern and has been linked to increased cancer risk. A 2012 report estimated that 3.9% of cancer cases worldwide—around 544,300—were attributable to overweight and obesity. Evidence shows that excess body fat increases the risk of 13 cancers, including postmenopausal breast, liver, colon, endometrial, and esophageal cancers, with probable links to prostate, mouth, pharynx, and larynx cancers. Women experience nearly twice as many excess-body-weight-related cancers as men, largely due to breast and endometrial cancers, while liver cancer is a major contributor in men.

Globally, obesity rates have doubled over the past four decades, rising from about 21% to 40% in men and from 24% to 40% in women. The increase is particularly pronounced among men in Western countries and women in Central Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. This trend is driven by energy-dense diets, reduced physical activity, and lifestyle changes.

Stopping the obesity epidemic is a World Health Organization target, but achieving it will require policy-driven, population-level interventions, such as promoting healthier diets, improving opportunities for physical activity, and supporting sustainable lifestyle changes. Addressing obesity is crucial not only for cancer prevention but also for overall health, including urinary tract health, which can be affected by excess body weight.

Thomas, N. (2018, December 12). Excess body weight responsible for 4% of cancers worldwide, study says. CNN. https://edition.cnn.com/2018/12/12/health/worldwide-cancer-obesity-study/index.html