Association Between Weight Gain Throughout Various Life Phases and the Susceptibility of Gastrointestinal Cancers
Weight gain has become one of the most common concerns in today’s society, given the modern sedentary lifestyle and consuming high caloric diets. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity has almost tripled worldwide since 1975, and about 39% of adults aged 18 years and over are overweight.
Obesity not only increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, but it is also a major factor that contributes to the development of several types of cancers. Among the cancers, gastrointestinal (GI) cancers like colorectal, pancreatic, liver, and gastric cancers are commonly linked with obesity. The association between weight gain throughout various life phases and the risk of developing GI cancers is worth noting.
Weight Change Across Life Phases and the Risk of GI Cancers
Studies have extensively investigated the correlation between weight gain across life phases and the risk of GI cancers. A study published in JAMA Oncology found that weight gain during early adulthood (ages 18-30) and middle-aged adulthood (ages 30-50) is associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer in both men and women. Another study published in the Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention journal found that weight gain during adulthood increases the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Moreover, a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that excessive weight gain during midlife (ages 50-64) is associated with a higher risk of liver cancer. The study concluded that weight loss could potentially reduce the burden of liver cancer in older adults.
The Mechanism Behind the Association
The mechanism behind the association between weight gain and GI cancer development is still unclear. However, several hypotheses suggest that obesity leads to an increased insulin resistance, inflammation, and oxidative stress, which are the underlying factors that contribute to cancer initiation and progression.
“A healthier diet and consistent physical activity can help maintain weight and reduce the risk of GI cancers over the lifespan. #FightGIcancers #HealthyLifestyle #CancerPrevention”
Conclusion
To sum up, the association between weight gain throughout various life phases and the risk of GI cancers is crucially important to understand. It is essential to maintain a healthy weight and indulge in physical activity throughout life to reduce the risk of GI cancers. A healthier diet and consistent physical activity can help maintain weight and reduce the risk of GI cancers over the lifespan.
#FightGIcancers #HealthyLifestyle #CancerPrevention #HEALTH