How inactivity and excess weight can shape cancer risk
Summary
Chronic physical inactivity and excess body weight are linked to biological changes that can increase the risk of several cancers, including breast, endometrial, colon and liver cancer. Regular movement, even without major weight loss, can help lower risk by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation and supporting healthier metabolism.
Key Points
- Physical inactivity and obesity are associated with hormonal, metabolic and inflammatory changes that can raise cancer risk.
- Excess body weight has been strongly linked to at least 13 cancer types, including cancers of the colon, endometrium, kidney, liver and pancreas.
- Regular physical activity can reduce risk through improved insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation and better control of body fat and hormones.
- Doctors stress that obesity is a complex disease and that these are modifiable risk factors, not guarantees of cancer.
