Health & Fitness
Obese men more likely to have certain cancer risks
A new study found elevated leptin (a fat hormone), higher body mass index (BMI), and a larger waistline in men is associated with a greater likelihood of having colorectal polyps, precancerous growths that can eventually become cancerous.
Obesity is a known risk factor for many cancers including colon cancer, yet the reasons behind the colon cancer link have often remained unclear.
A new study has shown that elevated leptin (a fat hormone), higher body mass index (BMI), and a larger waistline in men is associated with a greater likelihood of having colorectal polyps, precancerous growths that can eventually become cancerous.
Recently, the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine led an 18-month study which followed 126 healthy American males ranging from 48 to 65 years of age. Participants showed no signs or symptoms of health issues, yet underwent routine colonoscopies.
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The study found 78 percent of the 126 men in the study were either overweight or obese based on their BMI or waist circumference. Of those, about 30 percent were found to have more than one polyp after colonoscopies were performed. In fact, the most obese participants were 6.5 times more likely to have three polyps compared to their thinner counterparts.
As a laparoscopic surgeon specializing in conditions related to the GI tract, diverticular disease and colon cancer, this news was not a surprise to me.
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Obesity increases the risk of several types of cancer and this new study only supports this scientific evidence. There are several ways to battle obesity and improve your daily life as well and your overall longevity.
Talk with your family doctor about your weight and determine your BMI to know where you stand. From there, construct a plan to battle back and overcome the weight. Your life truly depends on it.
About Dr. Seun Sowemimo, MD, FACS
“Dr. Seun” is a top NJ bariatric surgeon and the medical director at Prime Surgicare, with offices in Freehold serving Monmouth and Ocean counties. He is board-certified, Columbia and Yale University fellowship-trained advanced laparoscopic, bariatric and general surgeon. He has advanced expertise performing the safest, most advanced laparoscopic and general surgical operations. To learn more, visit his YouTube channel or call Prime Surgicare at (732) -982-2002.
