A recent World Health Organization (WHO) report identifies excess body fat as a significant risk factor for 13 types of cancer, including breast, colon, stomach, liver, and endometrial cancers.
Medical oncologist Dr Andrew Odhiambo from Nairobi Hospital Cancer Centre highlights that obesity is now considered as dangerous as smoking or physical inactivity when it comes to cancer risk. He explains that visceral fat, the fat stored deep within the abdomen, triggers inflammation by releasing insulin, growth factors, and cytokines that encourage abnormal cell growth.
Dr Victor Oria, chief scientist at the Integrated Cancer Research Foundation of Kenya, adds that increased body fat often leads to insulin resistance, causing the body to produce more insulin. This hormonal imbalance can promote cancer development not only in the pancreas but throughout the body. Fat tissue acts like an active organ, releasing hormones and inflammatory chemicals that can impair the immune system's ability to eliminate abnormal cells, potentially leading to tumour formation.
Hidden Dangers of Visceral Fat
Dr Odhiambo points out that individuals may appear slim externally but still carry harmful levels of visceral fat internally. This condition, sometimes called being "metabolically obese," can elevate cholesterol and cause fatty liver disease even in those with normal weight.
He notes a strong correlation between obesity and certain cancers, particularly breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancers, where most patients tend to be overweight or obese. Colorectal cancer risk linked to obesity is more pronounced in people over 50, while kidney, pancreatic, and breast cancers also show associations with excess body fat after age 45.
Obesity Complicates Cancer Treatment
Beyond increasing cancer risk, obesity presents challenges during treatment. Overweight patients often require higher chemotherapy doses, face slower wound healing, and have a greater risk of infections and surgical complications. Managing treatment for morbidly obese patients can be complex, including difficulties with nutrition and post-surgical care.
Rising Obesity Rates in Kenya
With growing rates of abdominal obesity in both urban and rural Kenya, the cancer burden linked to excess fat is rising. Breast cancer remains the most common diagnosis, followed by cervical, prostate, oesophagus, colon, and rectal cancers.
Dr Odhiambo attributes this trend to unhealthy diets and reduced physical activity. He emphasizes that cultural perceptions often hinder weight management efforts, as many associate being overweight with prosperity.
Prevention and Improved Outcomes
Maintaining a healthy body mass index and staying physically active are crucial for reducing cancer risk and improving treatment outcomes. Exercise is now recognized as an essential component of cancer care, contributing to lower recurrence rates and better overall prognosis.
