New Delhi: A new study has highlighted a stronger link between obesity and breast cancer, suggesting that excess body fat may not only increase the risk of developing the disease but also create conditions that allow early-stage breast cancer to become more aggressive.
Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating more than 2.3 million new cases each year. While age, genetics, and hormonal factors are well-known risk factors, researchers say the latest findings provide fresh insights into how obesity and breast cancer may be closely connected.
Study Links Obesity to Tumour Progression
The study examined tissue samples from women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), an early-stage, non-invasive form of breast cancer in which abnormal cells remain confined to the milk ducts.
Researchers found that obesity can alter the tissue surrounding breast tumours by increasing inflammation, changing immune responses, and disrupting communication between cells. These changes may create an environment that allows cancer cells to spread beyond the milk ducts into nearby breast tissue.
The research also identified higher levels of a protein known as Sulfatase 2 (SULF2) in breast tissue from women with obesity. Scientists believe this protein may play an important role in changing the tumour environment, potentially increasing the risk of invasive breast cancer.
Why Obesity Matters
The connection between obesity and cancer in breast has been recognised for years, particularly among postmenopausal women. Excess body fat can raise levels of estrogen, insulin, and chronic inflammation—factors known to contribute to breast cancer development.
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According to researchers, the new findings help explain why women living with obesity may have a greater likelihood of developing invasive breast cancer compared to those who maintain a healthy body weight.
Early Detection Remains Crucial
Health experts stress that regular breast cancer screening remains one of the most effective ways to detect the disease early. Since early-stage breast cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, women are encouraged to seek medical attention if they notice a new lump in the breast or underarm, persistent breast pain, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, swelling, redness, or changes in breast size or shape.
Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Healthy Lifestyle Can Lower the Risk
Although cancer in breast cannot always be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce risk. Experts recommend eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and attending regular health screenings.
The latest findings reinforce the growing evidence linking obesity and breast cancer and highlight the importance of weight management as part of long-term cancer prevention. Researchers believe further studies could help identify women at higher risk and improve strategies for preventing invasive breast cancer in the future.
As research continues, the growing understanding of obesity and breast cancer may pave the way for better prevention, earlier diagnosis, and more personalised treatment approaches.