New research shows cancer deaths linked to obesity have tripled in the past two decades in the U.S., with the biggest impact on women, the elderly, rural populations, and marginalised communities. The culprit? At least 13 types of cancer — including breast, colon, pancreas, and liver — now have direct links to excess body weight.
Obesity-Linked Cancer Deaths Have Tripled – Here’s Who’s Most at Risk
And while the study is U.S.-based, India isn’t immune. One in four Indian adults is now overweight or obese, according to NFHS-5. With this shift, we're seeing more lifestyle-related diseases crop up — quietly but steadily.
Obesity increases chronic inflammation, alters hormones, and affects how cells grow — creating the perfect conditions for cancer to thrive. It’s not about appearance. It’s biology.
Experts say what’s needed now is not just awareness, but earlier screenings, better access to care, and less stigma. As ancient Indian texts once warned, unchecked excess weakens the body from within — science now gives us the numbers to prove it.
This isn’t about blame. It’s about understanding risk — and reducing it while there’s still time.