Gauging your future cancer risk may be easier than you think. By observing the locations on your body where excess fat tends to settle, you could be getting vital insights into your likelihood of developing cancer.
Body Shape Predicts Cancer Risk
A study published in the British Journal of Cancer revealed that body shape could be an even better indicator of weight-related cancer risk than Body Mass Index (BMI). The researchers found that carrying extra weight around your middle increases the risk of obesity-related cancers such as postmenopausal breast, colorectal, lower esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreatic, endometrial, ovarian, and kidney cancers. Additionally, carrying excess weight on your hips increases the risk of bowel cancer.
More specifically, the study discovered that having an additional 11 cm of fat in your waistline increases your risk of obesity-related cancers by 13%. Carrying an extra 8 cm of fat around your hips raises your risk of bowel cancer by 15%.
BMI has long been linked to an increased risk of 13 different types of cancer. However, this study suggests that focusing on your body shape may provide a more accurate reflection of how excess fat impacts your health and, crucially, your cancer risk. Dr. Heinz Freisling, lead author of the study, and scientist at the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC-WHO) suggests that it’s important to consider more than just BMI when assessing cancer risk. Body shape, it seems, can give a clearer indication of risk levels.
But why does body shape affect cancer risk? Researchers believe it is likely due to how holding fat in specific areas of your body impacts hormone levels, insulin levels, and inflammation. This can create a complex web of interactions that can lead to numerous health problems, including cancer.
Prioritizing Health Over Weight Loss
It’s important to remember that being ‘thin’ does not necessarily mean being healthy. Thin people can also face their own unique cancer-related risks. Rather than focusing on shedding pounds, prioritize cultivating a healthy mindset and a healthy lifestyle. Embrace your body and treat it well by eating fresh, whole foods, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. This approach tends to be more beneficial than obsessing over the number you see on the scale.
Eating a healthy diet and incorporating regular physical activity into your routine are two of the best ways to lower your overall cancer risk. So instead of worrying about your body shape, take proactive and healthy steps to love and care for your body the way it is.
