Overweight or obese individuals carry an increased risk of 13 types of cancer that collectively account for about 40 percent of all cancers diagnosed in the United States, according to the CDC's most recent Vital Signs report.
For the report, CDC researcher analyzed data on cancer incidence compiled from 2005 through 2014.
Here are three report findings
1. Fifty-five percent of cancer cases in women and 24 percent of cancer cases in men are linked to unhealthy weight levels. Thirteen types of cancer, including kidney, breast and pancreatic cancer, are associated with obesity and overweight.
2. Overweight or obese black and white individuals have higher incidence rates of these 13 cancers than other racial groups. Black males and American Indian/Alaska Native males carry higher incidence rates than white males.
3. The incidence rate of all cancers associated with being overweight or obese, except colorectal cancer, increased 7 percent from 2005 through 2014. Colorectal cancer rates dropped 23 percent over same period, largely due to increased screening rates. From 2005 through 2014, cancers not linked to being overweight and obese decreased 13 percent.
"A majority of American adults weigh more than recommended — and being overweight or obese puts people at higher risk for a number of cancers — so these findings are a cause for concern," said CDC director Brenda Fitzgerald, MD. "By getting to and keeping a healthy weight, we all can play a role in cancer prevention."
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