Obese men are more likely to develop this disease

Obesity has long been linked to conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. However, a new study found surprising associations between obese men and a higher risk of prostate cancer.

A Canadian study published in Cancer Causes & Control looked at fat distribution and whether or not it plays a role in cancer development.

The researchers collected data from over 1,900 men between 2005 and 2012 and compiled waist and hip measurements, height, weight, BMI and other relevant statistics. They found that belly fat was linked to aggressive prostate cancer. The higher the BMI, the higher the likelihood of developing prostate cancer.

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A closer look at the results revealed that waists of 40 inches or higher were even more dangerous, associated with an increased risk of advanced prostate cancer.

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One of the most important facts that research has uncovered is that general obesity is not related to prostate cancer. The problem is belly fat, which is believed to cause prostate cancer cells to multiply.

“Abdominal obesity causes hormonal and metabolic fluctuations that can promote the growth of hormone-dependent cancer cells,” said one of the study’s authors, Éric Vallières. “It is believed that abdominal obesity is linked to a decrease in testosterone as well as a chronic inflammatory condition associated with the development of aggressive tumors.”

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While the results are worrying, having this knowledge is a good thing. Studies like these can guide doctors and patients alike, and provide answers on how to manage complex diseases like cancer. Men who are overweight may be monitored closely for prostate cancer to prevent the disease or to treat it early.