Obesity-Related Cancer Deaths on the Rise in the U.S.
A recent study indicates that deaths from cancer linked to obesity have significantly increased in the U.S. over the last two decades. The figures show a rise from 3.73 million to 1.352 million deaths.
This data was shared at the Endo 2025 meeting, an annual gathering of the Endocrinology Society, which took place in San Francisco last month. Researchers from Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Hackensack Meridian Health conducted the study, analyzing over 33,000 obesity-related cancer deaths spanning from 1999 to 2020, using information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Older Adults, Women, and Minorities at Higher Risk
Findings suggest that elderly individuals, women, and racial minorities face greater risk. Notably, the Midwest reported the highest rates of obesity-related cancer deaths, whereas the Northeast had the lowest. States like Vermont, Minnesota, and Oklahoma ranked among the highest, while Utah, Alabama, and Virginia were at the bottom.
The CDC notes that over 40% of Americans struggle with obesity, which raises the likelihood of developing certain cancers as well as other chronic health issues, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.
Obesity poses a heightened risk for developing 13 cancer types.
These cancer types encompass:
- Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus
- Breast (in postmenopausal women)
- Colon and rectum
- Uterus
- Gallbladder
- Upper stomach
- Kidney
- Liver
- Pancreas
- Thyroid
- Meningioma (a type of brain tumor)
- Multiple myeloma
According to Mohamed Bakr, an associate director at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Center’s residency program, mortality rates from obesity-related cancers have more than tripled.
Bakr highlighted that the most significant increase occurred between 2018 and 2020. He emphasized that public health strategies should target early screening and better healthcare access, particularly in high-risk rural areas.
Tackling the Crisis
“Obesity is a pressing public health concern, and the link between obesity and cancer needs to be addressed with urgency, much like other epidemics,” Bakr stated.
Dr. Robert Den, a radiation oncologist, recently spoke on the increased occurrences of various cancers associated with obesity, particularly colorectal and postmenopausal breast cancer. He pointed out an alarming trend where these cancers are becoming prevalent not just among older individuals but also among younger patients, a shift that was not observed previously.
Den remarked, “These cancers are often more aggressive and challenging to treat. With rising obesity rates, the overall cancer burden is poised to grow,” affecting families and healthcare systems alike.
Preventive Measures
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and reduced alcohol intake are essential in lowering cancer risk. Early cancer screening is also crucial. Dr. Decotiis, a medical weight loss physician in New York, noted the importance of modern obesity and diabetes medications, which are now being linked to lower cancer risks.
With obesity often leading to the production of inflammatory cytokines, this body response can interfere with normal regulatory functions and is associated with an increased risk of cancer.
Dr. Decotiis emphasized that tackling obesity aggressively is vital, advocating for the use of certified weight loss physicians to discuss effective plans tailored to the individual.
In short, both healthcare professionals and the general public need to consider obesity and its accompanying risks seriously. Losing weight may be critical in reducing inflammation and potentially preventing cancer.
