Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common and feared diseases among women. It has touched the lives of countless individuals, families, and communities around the world. Obesity, on the other hand, is a global epidemic with far-reaching health consequences. It affects not only the physical health of individuals but also their mental and emotional well-being. Is there a relationship between these two very common health issues?

Understanding Breast Cancer

As with any problem, a thorough understand of BC is key to bringing down its global burden. Then, before we explore the link between obesity and breast cancer, let us shed light on some important concepts.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the breast tissue. It occurs when the cells in the breast undergo uncontrolled growth and division, forming a lump or mass. This cancer can affect both men and women, although it is far more common in women.

Breast cancer is a multifaceted disease with various subtypes, each characterized by different cellular and molecular features. Some common subtypes include ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC).

How common is breast cancer?

According to the American Cancer Society, BC is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancer. It represents 30% of all new female cancer each year. About 300 000 women are projected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in America in 2023.

Globally, BC is the second leading cause of death in women by CDC estimation. In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685 000 deaths around the world.

What the risk factors for breast cancer?

Cerains factors increase the risk of breast cancer. They include:

• Age
• Gender
• Family history of breast cancer
• Alcohol consumption
• Cigarette smoking
• Early menarche
• Late menopause
• Nulliparity
• Obesity
• Hormonal therapy after menopause

The Obesity and Breast Cancer Link

Obesity is not merely a cosmetic concern; it is a complex medical condition associated with a wide range of health issues. Over the years, extensive research has provided evidence of a strong link between obesity and BC. How are they linked?

Look at the risk factor section again. The last five risk factors cited above are highlighted intentionally for the purpose of our discussion. They have one thing in common: the increased and prolonged exposure of the breast tissue to estrogen.

Obesity is associated with an imbalance of sex hormones, particularly estrogen. Fat cells, or adipose tissue, transform testosterone into estrogen by an enzymatic reaction called aromatization (the enzyme, of course, is aromatase). Thus, excessive fat leads to higher estrogen levels in the body. Elevated estrogen is known to stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.

What is estrogen?

Estrogen, a crucial female sex hormone, plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of female secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast tissue. It is important to understand that estrogen stimulates the growth and proliferation of mammary ducts and glandular tissue in the breasts. Additionally, it increases the number of estrogen receptors in breast cells, making them more responsive to the hormone’s effects.

However, it is important to note that excessive or prolonged exposure to high levels of estrogen, which can occur in cases of obesity, may have potential consequences. Abnormal cell growth in the breast tissue can be promoted, potentially increasing the risk of breast cancer. It is crucial to monitor hormonal balance and maintain a healthy lifestyle to minimize any potential risks.

Other mechanisms linking obesity to breast cancer.

Chronic inflammation: obesity is pro-inflammatory state. Chronic inflammation can damage DNA and promote the development of cancerous cells.

Insulin resistance: Obese individuals are more likely to develop insulin resistance, where the body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin. Insulin resistance is thought to increase the risk of BC by promoting the growth of abnormal cells.

PREVENTION AND AWARENESS

The good news is that there are several effective strategies to prevent obesity and maintain a healthy weight, which can have multiple benefits for both your physical and mental well-being. By adopting a holistic approach to your lifestyle, you can not only reduce the risk of breast cancer, but also enhance your overall health and quality of life. Read also: Seven reasons why you cannot lose your extra weight.

Breast Cancer Screening: Following recommended breast cancer screening guidelines is crucial in the early detection of breast cancer. By adhering to these guidelines, which include regular mammograms and self-examinations, women can significantly improve their chances of detecting breast cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable.

Hopefully this article will be helpful to you.

Yours in good health!

MDLINE HEALTH