Less recognized link between obesity and cancer

Not many people in U.K. understand the connection between issues related to weight and cancer. A new study, published in the Journal of Public Health, suggested that obesity is associated with different types of cancer like breast, bowel, kidney, etc. It was found after surveying over 3000 adults that only 25% of the population knew about the link between obesity and cancer.

After smoking, obesity is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Although around 63% of the English population is overweight, just 25.4% reported cancer as a health issue related to obesity.

The study author linked poor socio-economic background with obesity prevalence and less awareness of the link between obesity and cancer. These trends will grow by 2035 as the gap between income groups will widen.

During this study, it was found that not all participants had visited a general practitioner (GP) or a health care professional during the last 12 months. Those, who received medical advice, were mainly told how to lose weight instead of being told about cancer risk due obesity or being overweight.

The study co-author, Dr. Jyotsna Vohra, said that this is really bad that people don’t connect obesity with cancer. Only 25% are aware of the link between obesity and cancer. Also, weight issues are not being discussed with patients as often as they should be. GPs run short of time, so they are unable to discuss the issue for long. However, more support must be provided to patients and doctors, so that they can discuss about such sensitive issues.

Source:sciencedaily.com