Risk factor 6. Obesity – The Weighty Issue in Thyroid Cancer
The link between obesity and various health conditions has been well established, and thyroid cancer is no exception. As the sixth risk factor on our list, obesity’s role in thyroid cancer is significant and multidimensional.
Research indicates that obesity, defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, is associated with an increased risk of several cancer types, including thyroid cancer. But why does excess body weight drive this increased risk?
One plausible explanation relates to the chronic inflammation associated with obesity. Fat tissue produces substances called adipokines, which can promote cell proliferation and inhibit cell death, setting the stage for potential cancer development. Additionally, obesity often goes hand-in-hand with insulin resistance and increased insulin levels, further propelling cell growth and division.
Beyond these biochemical links, obesity can also make detection of thyroid cancer more difficult. For instance, detecting nodules during a physical examination can be challenging in obese individuals, leading to potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. (6)
