Obesity linked to some forms of cancer.

Researchers have found a consistent relationship between a number of diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. Although study results related to cancer have been conflicting, with some showing an increased risk and others not showing such an association, obesity does appear to increase the risk of cancers of the breast, colon, prostate, endometrium, cervix, ovary, kidney and gallbladder. Studies have also found an increased risk for cancers of the liver, pancreas, rectum and esophagus. Although there are many theories about how obesity increases cancer risk, the exact mechanisms are not known. They may be different for different types of cancer. In addition, because obesity develops through a complex interaction of heredity and lifestyle factors, researchers may not be able to tell whether the obesity or something else led to the development of cancer.