Watch your BMI: Obesity before 40 increases the chances of getting these types of cancer

New Delhi: Obesity before the age of 40 years, increases the chances of developing various kinds of cancer as high as 70 per cent, a recent study published in International Journal of Epidemiology has stated

In an international study, lead by the University of Bergen, the researchers wanted to find out how adult overweight (BMI over 25) and obesity (BMI over 30) increase the risk of different types of cancer. They examined the impact of BMI (body mass index) and weight changes over time, as well as the timing and duration of excess weight, on obesity- and non-obesity-related cancers.

27 881 cancer cases were diagnosed; 9761 were obesity-related.

• 70 percent for endometrial cancer.


• 58 percent for male renal-cell cancer.


• 29 percent for male colon cancer.


• 15 percent for all obesity-related cancers (both sexes).

"Obesity is an established risk factor for several cancers. In this study, we have focused on the degree, timing and duration of overweight and obesity in relation to cancer risk," says Professor Tone Bjørge, at Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen.

The study is published in the International Journal of Epidemiology.

Obesity increases risk over time

In the study, the researchers included adults with two or more measurements, obtained at least three years apart, and before a possible cancer diagnosis. On average, the individuals were followed for about 18 years.

Obese participants (BMI over 30) at the first and second health examination had the highest risk of developing obesity-related cancer, compared to participants with normal BMI.

"The risk increased by 64 percent for male participants and 48 percent for females," Bjørge says.

Avoid weight gain

Obesity is a global challenge and associated with increased risk of several types of cancer. The results from the study show that overweight and obese adults have an increased risk of postmenopausal breast, endometrial, renal-cell and colon cancer.

"Our key message is that preventing weight gain may be an important public health strategy to reduce the cancer risk," says Tone Bjørge.

For more details click on the link: DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyz188

Journal Details: International Journal of Epidemiology