Energy balance
Sustained weight loss of at least 5% achieved through pharmacotherapy or bariatric surgery is associated with a reduced risk of obesity-related cancers.
To reduce cancer risk, weight loss must be sustained over the long term. Losing at least 5% of body weight and keeping it off is associated with lower cancer risk. For those who struggle to maintain weight loss, pharmacotherapy or bariatric surgery can help sustain the loss, thereby preserving the cancer-protective benefits.
Both maximum and sustained weight loss are essential for all forms of effective metabolic improvement, including cancer risk reduction.
Why this rating
Supported by long-term observational studies (Iowa Women's Health, WHI) and bariatric surgery data.
Source
Mechanisms by Which Pharmacotherapy May Impact Cancer Risk among Individuals with Overweight and Obesity
Edward R. Sauter et al. · Cancers · 2024
DOI 10.3390/cancers16193275
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- Bariatric surgery is superior to medical management alone for inducing significant long-term weight loss, remission of type 2 diabetes, and reduction in mortality for patients with BMI ≥ 40 or ≥ 35 with comorbidities.Strong
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