Women play a major role in families and communities, which makes rising cancer risk in women a growing public health concern. According to Dr. Karthik KS, Consultant Surgical Oncology, KMC Hospital, lifestyle factors such as obesity, hormonal imbalance, and physical inactivity are significantly increasing the incidence of several cancers in women.

Excess body weight has been recognised as a major risk factor for multiple cancers. Studies show that at least 10 per cent of cancers are linked to obesity. “Obesity is associated with a higher incidence of cancers in women. Morbid obesity can increase the chances of endometrial cancer by about seven times and esophageal cancer by five times,” said Dr. Karthik. Women with obesity face a higher risk of:

According to Dr. Karthik, obesity or being overweight can affect your body in several cancer-promoting ways. Excess fat tissue only:

Fat tissue also produces higher levels of estrogen, especially in postmenopausal women. Elevated estrogen significantly increases the risk of breast and uterine cancers. These hormonal changes, combined with inflammation, can promote tumour growth and metastasis.

Obesity and hormonal changes lead to deadliest cancers like breast and ovarian cancer

The encouraging news is that weight loss reduces cancer risk. According to various studies, even a 5 to 10 per cent reduction in body weight can significantly lower the risk of breast, uterine, and colorectal cancers. “Postmenopausal women who reduced weight with intent could reduce the incidence of breast, uterus, and colorectal cancer,” said Dr. Karthik.

Bariatric surgery has demonstrated substantial benefits, reducing the risk of certain cancers by up to 50 per cent in high-risk individuals.

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Adopting a calorie-controlled and balanced diet – loaded with all food groups and major nutrients is one of the most effective cancer prevention strategies. While no single “anti-cancer diet” exists, Dr. Karthik recommends:

While regular physical activity plays a powerful preventive role, it is important to move around daily. According to research, you should walk at least 7,500 steps daily and engage in at least three to four hours of moderate exercise every week. Workouts can reduce the risk of certain cancers by up to 25 per cent.

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