by Kelly McCue
Much of the conversation about increased body weight, and in particular, obesity and health, focuses on how obesity increases a person’s risk for chronic illnesses, such as heart disease or diabetes. Several types of cancer are also associated with obesity, however, including breast cancer.
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), obese women have a higher risk for breast cancer following menopause. The research shows a link between some breast tumors and increased levels of estrogen. Once the ovaries stop producing this hormone, fat tissue becomes the body’s main source. So a woman with more fat tissue might be causing these tumors to grow faster. Scientists estimate that as many as 1 in 6 cases of breast cancer occur in this way.
Even though the research results are about women who are post-menopausal, the amount of weight you carry earlier in life plays a role. From the time you turn 18 to when you reach menopause, usually sometime between the ages of 50 and 60 years old, the NCI says being obese has been “consistently associated” with an increased risk for breast cancer.
When you consider that the latest National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) finds that 68 percent of U.S. adults are overweight or obese, the potential for new breast cancer patients is very high. We are making strides with detection and treatment, but prevention is still the ultimate goal. Women should understand what their ideal body weight is and how to maintain it throughout their adult years.
Obesity is different than being overweight. It’s a condition referring to an excess amount of body fat. Healthcare professionals use the body mass index (BMI) to measure ideal body weight. This calculation looks at a person’s weight relative to their height to determine whether a person is underweight, normal, overweight, or obese. You can find the BMI calculation on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website. You can also ask your primary health practitioner about it during your next check-up.
Physical activity is the best way to reduce obesity. You should begin with a type of exercise that isn’t too strenuous, such as walking or casual biking. Even every day activities like light yard work or playing with your children can help burn fat. As your body becomes accustomed to these habits, you can try increasing your exercise level with swimming, cross-country skiing or jumping rope.
Your diet is also important. Find a way to cut some calories out of every meal. This easiest way to do this is to eat smaller portions of fatty foods while adding more fruit and vegetables. Look for foods that are high in fiber. Snacking on fiber-rich apples, grapes, celery, carrots or nuts can make you feel fuller for a longer period of time, meaning you’ll eat less at meal times.
Don’t forget about beverages. Sugary drinks are one of the leading causes of obesity. In addition to carbonated sodas, sports drinks and even many types of juice contain unhealthy amounts of sweetener.
My role at BMH is to help women who need information about breast health, as well as those who have already been diagnosed with breast cancer, find services they need to stay healthy. I am happy to speak with anyone looking for advice or resources in the community if it means helping prevent breast cancer and helping breast cancer survivors prevent recurrent breast cancer. The hospital also has a Community Health Team with certified dietitians and health coaches who work with patients at no additional cost. Talk to your healthcare practitioner to see what options work best for you.
Kelly McCue, MSN, CNS, RN, is the Comprehensive Breast Care program administrator and nurse navigator for Brattleboro Memorial Hospital’s Department of Oncology. She can be reached at 802-251-8437.