Obesity has been linked to 12 types of cancer including breast and colorectal, according to a new report.
The World Cancer Research Fund analyzed decades of research to come to its conclusion that cancers of the stomach, mouth and throat, liver, ovary, bowel, gallbladder, kidney, esophagus, pancreas, and womb are all associated with obesity.
The report also states 1.97 billion adults worldwide and over 338 million children are overweight or obese and at greater risk.
The WCRF recommends exercise, limiting red and processed meats, and decreasing consumption of fast food and processed food in order to lower cancer risk and fight obesity.
“It’s unlikely that there are 'magic bullet' specific foods or nutrients that in themselves cause or protect against cancer,” WRCF Executive Director of Science and Public Affairs Dr. Kate Allen said in a blog post on Thursday. “Rather, different patterns of diet and physical activity combine to create a metabolic state that makes you more or less susceptible to cancer.”
Other risk factors for cancer included drinking more than two alcoholic drinks daily, although drinking some alcohol — less than two per day — actually helps protect against most types of cancer, according to the report.
The report also confirmed breastfeeding can lower breast cancer risk for mothers.
A study by the American Cancer Society last year showed poor diets, inactivity and weight gain may be contributing to the rise of colon and rectal cancers in younger and middle-aged people.
The WCRF asserted that up to 40 percent of cancers may be preventable, according to its findings.
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