Most Americans Unaware of Cancer-Obesity Link: Report

Few Americans know that cancer is a risk factor of being obese, according to a new study.

A poll of 1,205 adults conducted by the American Institute for Cancer Research asked Americans if they knew about the various risk factors of obesity. Most said they knew their chances of diabetes and heart disease increased, but only 25 percent said they knew of the cancer risk, reports CNN

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization estimates one-quarter to one-third of cancer cases worldwide are related to being overweight and physically inactive.

Such cancers as post-menopausal breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, esophageal cancer, endometrial cancer and kidney cancer are increased among nonsmoking overweight and obese adults, according to the report.

© 1996-2003 Craig M. Anderson, D.C.