Real-world, nonsurgical weight loss was associated with up to a 5.4% reduced risk of developing cancer, according to a study published March 10 in Obesity.
Researchers from Cleveland Clinic analyzed patient data from 143,630 adults with a body mass index of 30 or higher who received care and subsequent follow-up between 2000 and 2022 to assess any association between weight loss and cancer risk.
Here are six things to know from the study:
- Researchers assessed BMI change at three-, five- and 10-year intervals alongside diagnoses of both obesity-related cancers and all cancer types.
- Of the 143,630 patients included in the study, 7,703 were diagnosed with cancer and 135,927 were part of the control group.
- Each 1% reduction in BMI was linked to lower obesity-related cancer risk at three, five and 10 years.
- Patients who experienced 5% weight loss at three and five years had a 4.9% and 5.4% reduction in obesity-related cancer risk, respectively.
Across all cancer types, each 5% of weight loss was associated with a 3.9%, 3.0% and 4.4% lower risk at three, five and 10 years, respectively. - Weight loss was associated with lower odds of developing endometrial cancer at three, five and 10 years, renal cell carcinoma at three and five years, and multiple myeloma at 10 years.
- “This study shows that even modest real-world weight loss is associated with significantly reduced odds of both obesity-related and other cancers,” the study authors wrote. “These findings emphasize the importance of implementing effective weight loss interventions as part of cancer prevention strategies in routine clinical care.”
Read the full study here.
At the Becker's Perioperative Summit, taking place September 14–15 in Chicago, perioperative leaders and healthcare executives will focus on improving operating room efficiency, enhancing patient safety, optimizing staffing and driving innovation across surgical services. Apply for complimentary registration now.
