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As if anyone needed yet another reason to lose weight, significant evidence suggests that obesity and overweight play an important role in cancer. Research has clearly established an increased risk for kidney cancer in both men and women and endometrial cancer and postmenopausal breast cancer in women. In addition, evidence is suggesting that excessive weight can contribute to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, gall bladder cancer, and even thyroid cancer. Links to esophageal cancer and prostate cancer are being reviewed, but there are no known conclusive results. Too few studies have been conducted for other types of cancer at this time.

The news isn’t all bad, however. Being overweight may be somewhat protective against some cancers, although studies appear inconclusive as well. Why does weight affect cancer risks? Many trials are being conducted to determine those answers, and the mechanisms underlying the obesity-cancer relationship isn’t fully understood.

According to the American Cancer Society, however, cancers linked to obesity among women comprise about half of all new cancers diagnosed and about 14 percent of new cancers in men. Studies also point out that normal-weight individuals have an overall higher recovery rate without complications and a lower mortality rate. Of course, many other reasons can be contributing factors and weight alone isn’t a reason unto itself. But what can’t be debated is that being at your recommended body weight and maintaining an active lifestyle tips the scale in favor of a healthier and happy life for the long term.