The problem of increasing obesity in India has taken a serious form. It is not only a matter of concern because people are now unable to do more physical movement. However there is a risk of many dangerous and life-threatening diseases that increase due to obesity. Cancer is also included in this.
Dr. Dinesh Singh, Chairman of Radiation Oncology, Andromeda Cancer Hospital, Sonipat, explains that obesity increases the risk of liver cancer significantly. In such a situation, weight loss can prove to be a game-changer in preventing liver cancer.
What is obesity?
Obesity is a condition in which excessive fat accumulates in the body and it can be dangerous for health. Generally, obesity is considered to be a condition when the body mass index (BMI) is 30 or more. According to the World Health Organization, cases of obesity have increased almost three times since 1975 and in the last few decades, it has taken the form of an epidemic globally.
Main causes of obesity
Environmental, behavioral and genetic factors work behind obesity. Low physical activity and unhealthy diet such as high calorie, carbohydrate, and unhealthy fat intake are the major reasons. Apart from this, psychological problems, lack of sleep, certain medications, and socio-economic factors also play an important role. An increase in the consumption of processed and fast food and a reduction in physical activity have fueled the obesity epidemic.
Relationship between obesity and cancer
According to Dr. Dinesh Singh, there is a complex relationship between obesity and cancer that involves many biological processes. Chronic inflammation caused by obesity can create a favorable environment for the development of cancer. In addition, it increases the levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF), which can promote the growth of cancer cells. Also, excess estrogen produced by fat tissue is associated with the risk of many types of cancer.
The risk of cancer is doubled in people suffering from obesity
People with obesity often have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which can turn into non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. This liver disease characterized by inflammation progresses to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, and eventually leads to liver cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, people with obesity are twice as likely to develop liver cancer as people with normal weight.
Symptoms seen in liver cancer
Dr. Babita Singh, Senior Consultant Radiation Oncologist, at Andromeda Cancer Hospital, Sonipat, says that the early symptoms of liver cancer can be subtle. Often they are not recognized before the disease reaches an advanced stage. However, these symptoms can usually be seen in the case of liver cancer-
Sudden weight loss
Lack of appetite
Pain in the upper abdomen
Nausea and vomiting
General weakness and fatigue
Enlarged liver
Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
What to do for prevention?
People with obesity can prevent liver cancer by adopting a balanced lifestyle. This includes getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limiting processed and sweetened foods.
(PC: Freepik)
