cathryn ilani cancer risk header

Few things are more important to your health than reducing your risk of cancer. Every year countless millions are stricken with different forms of cancer. While different forms of the disease carry different survival rates, the best way to survive cancer is, of course, to prevent yourself from contracting it in the first place. While there is no cure for cancer yet and no sure-fire way of eliminating the possibility of contracting it, eliminating risk factors such as being overweight can lower your chances of succumbing to cancer.

It should be noted that this guide is not intended to fat-shame or otherwise attack anyone for their body shape or proportions. There is a difference between having larger body proportions while remaining healthy and being clinically overweight. Body image is a hot topic right now, and it is vital that you feel comfortable and shale-free in your own skin.

With that out of the way, let’s take a look at how being overweight can increase your risk of cancer.

The Problem

So, what’s the problem?

One of the most important things to consider here is the fact that while obesity is on the rise in America, the manner in which being overweight can impact someone’s health is likely to vary from person to person. When you are overweight, some of your body’s organs may be under added stress, or it may lead to problems with your biochemistry.

That being said, there are several different forms of cancer which have been seen to have risk factors linked to being overweight or obesity, including:

  • Esophageal cancer 
  • Colon cancer
  • Gallbladder cancer
  • Stomach cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Liver cancer
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Various forms of breast cancer

Potential Solutions

Whether or not being overweight can impact your health will depend upon your own personal situation. Exercise, diet, and medication can all play a role in helping with clinical obesity. Everyone is different, and you’ll want to speak with your doctor before jumping to any conclusions.

Be sure to speak to your doctor and ask him or her how being overweight can potentially increase your risk of cancer.