Cancer Experts’ Statement on Obesity

Did you know that obesity is positioned to outrank smoking as the leading preventable cause of cancer? Experts believe that it could be just years away. In addition to an increased risk of cancer, obesity can also have an impact on one’s chance of surviving certain cancers. One study found that being overweight or obese may contribute to as many as 20 percent of cancer-related deaths, according to a group of leaders in cancer care, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

These alarming links have prompted the group to create a multi-pronged initiative to reduce the impact of obesity on cancer.  “With nearly three in four Americans obese or overweight, obesity has become a tremendous public health challenge that also impacts cancer care and prevention today,” said ASCO leadership. One of the most important steps, according to the ASCO statement, is to increase access to obesity screening and treatment. As research has shown, bariatric surgery is a highly effective and safe treatment for obesity in many people. Other recommended steps focus on increasing awareness and education about the links between obesity and cancer, the development of new tools and resources for doctors, and intensified and coordinated research.

Obesity also increases the risk of a multitude of other serious health conditions. Losing weight reduces these risks in many cases. If you would like to learn about your weight loss options, we are here to help. Call CHI Memorial Metabolic and Bariatric Care at (423) 899-1000 for more information.