Obesity linked to cardiovascular disease and cancer risks

Scientific evidence highlights the complex link between obesity and chronic health conditions, specifically cardiovascular disease and various cancers. Globally, obesity affects approximately 13% of the population, with projections suggesting that 25% of adults could be affected by 2035. Two-thirds of excess mortality associated with obesity is attributed to cardiovascular diseases, as visceral fat releases inflammatory substances that increase blood pressure and alter insulin response.

In Spain, data presented at the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) congress reveals that over 20% of patients with breast, colon, endometrial, ovarian, and kidney cancers also suffer from obesity. A study involving 1,333 patients showed that 23.6% were obese and 57.8% had excess weight. The prevalence was slightly higher in women (24%) than in men (21%), with the highest frequencies observed in the 60 to 69 age group. Experts emphasize the need to integrate body composition assessment into comprehensive patient care.