Obesity-Related Cancer Deaths on the Rise

A recent study has highlighted a significant increase in cancer deaths linked to obesity in the United States over the past two decades. Conducted by researchers at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Hackensack Meridian Health, the study was presented at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in San Francisco. It analyzed mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), focusing on over 33,000 deaths from obesity-associated cancers between 1999 and 2020. The findings reveal a troubling surge from 3.73 million to 13.52 million deaths, underscoring the growing public health challenge posed by obesity.

Demographic Disparities and Regional Variations

The study found that older adults, females, and racial minorities bear a higher burden of risk for obesity-related cancer deaths. Geographically, the Midwest recorded the highest rates, while the Northeast had the lowest. Vermont, Minnesota, and Oklahoma emerged as states with the highest incidence rates, contrasting with Utah, Alabama, and Virginia, which reported lower rates. These disparities highlight the need for targeted interventions to address regional and demographic differences in cancer mortality.

The Link Between Obesity and Cancer

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing 13 types of cancer, accounting for 40% of all cancers diagnosed annually in the U.S. Dr. Mohamed Bakr, a co-author of the study, emphasized that obesity-related cancer mortality has more than tripled in recent years, particularly between 2018 and 2020. This trend calls for urgent public health strategies focused on early screening and improved access to care in high-risk areas.

Expert Opinions on Addressing the Crisis

Dr. Robert Den, a radiation oncologist not involved in the study, expressed concern over the rising incidence of aggressive cancers such as colorectal, endometrial, pancreatic, and postmenopausal breast cancer. He advocates for promoting healthy body weight through balanced diets and regular physical activity as preventive measures. Dr. Sue Decotiis also highlighted the potential of obesity and diabetes drugs like GLP-1 medications in reducing cancer risk by addressing inflammation caused by cytokines in obese individuals.

Call for Comprehensive Public Health Efforts

Experts agree on the importance of broader public health initiatives to combat obesity-related cancer risks. These include better nutrition education, access to healthier foods, and environments that encourage active living. Preventing obesity is seen as a critical step in cancer prevention, with proactive measures needed to improve long-term health outcomes across populations.