The impact of weight loss surgery on Cancer prevention

New research reveals that weight loss surgery is linked to reduced cancer incidence and mortality, particularly among females

This supports the long-term benefits of this surgical procedure in cancer prevention.

The study investigates the intricate relationship between body mass index and cancer risk and explores whether voluntary body weight reduction through bariatric surgery translates into lower cancer risk.

Achieving substantial and sustained weight loss is challenging on a large scale, making this connection vital.

Weight loss surgery and cancer risk

By analysing extended follow-up years, larger sample sizes, and various surgical approaches, researchers find that individuals who undergo weight loss surgery experience decreased all-cancer and obesity-related cancer rates among females.

This evidence highlights the role of bariatric surgery in preventing cancer.

The study delves into cancer incidence and mortality, categorizing results based on factors such as obesity-related and non-obesity-related cancers, sex, cancer stage, and surgical procedure.

Data from 1982 to 2019 shows that nearly 22,000 bariatric surgery patients are compared to non-surgical counterparts with severe obesity. Matching factors include age, sex, and body mass index.

Significant reductions in cancer risk

The research demonstrates compelling outcomes, indicating a 25% lower risk of cancer development in the bariatric surgery group than in non-surgical counterparts.

Notably, female patients who undergo bariatric surgery show a remarkable 41% lower risk of obesity-related cancers than matched non-surgical females. The study doesn’t identify the same risk reduction for male patients.

Specific cancers and mortality rates

Among the standout findings, several cancers exhibit significantly reduced risk post weight loss surgery: uterine, ovarian, colon, pre-menopausal breast, and post-menopausal breast cancers.

Equally noteworthy, the study reveals a 47% decrease in cancer-related mortality among female bariatric surgery patients compared to their non-surgical counterparts.

The study’s comprehensive analysis underscores the robust link between weight loss surgery and cancer prevention, highlighting the potential for substantial cancer risk reduction, especially for females. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the role of bariatric surgery in long-term health benefits.