Obesity and cancer: 4 things to consider

Studies have shown links between obesity and cancer, and as rates continue to rise in the U.S. and around the world, oncologists should be aware of how obesity may affect patient outcomes. Not all of the increased risks associated with obesity are obvious, but treatment is available.

HemOnc Today scanned the literature and found the following important key associations between obesity and cancer.

1. Screening

Obese patients may be less likely to seek screening, and screening may be more complicated among these patients. For example, data have demonstrated that obesity can affect PSA screening for prostate cancer due to hemodilution. In addition, thyroid cancer screening with ultrasound rather than biopsy may be suitable for some obese patients with other risk factors.

2. Complications

Obesity has been associated with increased time and costs to treat lung cancer, poorer outcomes in ER-positive/HER2-negative and HR-positive breast cancer, recurrences of breast cancer, postsurgical complications in patients with gastric cancer and chest pain after radiation for lung cancer.

3. Increased risk

Over the years, obesity has been linked to esophageal and gastric adenocarcinoma, prostate cancer and its progression , increased risk for mortality in pancreatic cancer, all types of breast cancer and colorectal tumors. Additionally, bariatric surgery has been associated with an increased risk for colorectal cancer, but may reduce the risk for uterine cancer.

4. Incorrect dosage

Poorer outcomes among obese patients may be related to therapeutic dosage levels. To combat this problem, ASCO established guidelines for chemotherapy doses that are based on body weight.