How Obesity And Lesser Physical Activity May Lead To Cancer

Let’s Start With Obesity First:

Beyond its well-known associations with diabetes and heart disease, obesity has emerged as a significant risk factor for various cancers.

Although more conclusive studies are needed on this, there is no doubt that obesity is a growing concern in our society today, all thanks to our sedentary lifestyle.

Fat tissue usually produces high levels of oestrogen, which has been associated with breast, ovarian, endometrial, and other types of cancer across the demography (which also includes women).

An increased body mass index can also lead to colon, renal, and prostate cancer.

The sadder part is that the younger population is getting more affected by this sedentary lifestyle, and while they are aware of it, most of them tend to overlook the issues.

Lesser physical activity:

Lack of physical activity, especially among youth today, is also leading to an increased number of cancer cases.

Lesser physical activity is linked to breast cancer risk in women, especially those in the menopause phase.

Increasing adoption of sedentary lifestyles like prolonged work hours, munching unhealthy snacks while working, watching TV, videos, and the newest trend of watching reels for hours are pushing people away from doing exercises and walks.

Such a sedentary lifestyle is increasing cases of problems like PCOD and PCOS, especially in younger women.

In addition, sedentary behaviour is also increasing the cancer of the lungs, endometrial, and colon.

A proper, balanced diet and adequate exercise are the best medicine and protection against most non-communicable diseases, like cancer, diabetes, and coronary disease.

Inputs by: Jyotsna Govil, Chairperson, Indian Cancer Society, Delhi Branch