Bariatric surgery, which includes various procedures like gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and gastric banding, is primarily performed to help individuals with severe obesity lose weight. Beyond its effects on weight loss, bariatric surgery has been found to have potential impacts on the development and outcomes of certain types of cancer. However, it’s important to note that research in this area is ongoing, and results may vary.
It May Reduce the Cancer Risk
It is believed that healthcare professionals are using different strategies such as Chemotherapy, Surgery and Anti-Cancer Medicines in the treatment of cancer till now. But now researchers are searching for other effective technique to overcome this disease. They have discovered that the biggest correlation with reducing the incidence of hormone-related cancers, such as endometrial, ovarian, and breast cancer, was observed with bariatric surgery.
The way that fat, or adipose tissue, influences hormones in the body, such as insulin and oestrogen, is thought to be one of the processes by which bariatric surgery impacts these cancers. The cancers listed above are linked to the excess oestrogen produced by adipose tissue.
Additionally, the bodies of obese people typically contain higher levels of insulin, which can contribute to the emergence of certain cancers.
Fat cells produce the hormone leptin, which is essential for metabolism, reproduction, and satiety. But obesity can also cause it to be produced in excess, which can result in “aberrant cell proliferation” and eventually cancer.
The Obesity-Related Cancers
Numerous major health disorders, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, are associated with obesity. Additionally, it is linked to a higher risk of some cancer types, such as:
- Pancreatic
- Ovarian
- Colonorectal
- Breast
- Kidney
- Liver
Bariatric surgery, frequently referred to as “weight loss surgery,” involves altering a patient’s digestive tract to decrease their food intake and increase their feeling of fullness. Bariatric surgery encompasses a variety of techniques, some of which are included here, including gastric sleeve and gastric bypass.
Here are some potential ways in which bariatric surgery may influence cancer:
- Reduced Obesity-Related Cancer Risk: Obesity is a known risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, endometrial, and pancreatic cancers. Bariatric surgery often leads to significant weight loss, and studies suggest that this weight reduction may be associated with a decreased risk of obesity-related cancers.
- Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity: Bariatric surgery can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Since diabetes is a risk factor for certain cancers, the surgery may indirectly lower cancer risk by improving glucose metabolism.
- Changes in Hormone Levels: Bariatric surgery can alter the levels of various hormones, including insulin, ghrelin, and adiponectin. These hormonal changes may impact the development and progression of certain cancers.
- Inflammation Reduction: Obesity is associated with chronic inflammation, which can contribute to cancer development. Bariatric surgery may reduce inflammation levels, potentially lowering the risk of inflammation-related cancers.
- Altered Gut Microbiota: Bariatric surgery can lead to changes in the gut microbiota, which may influence systemic inflammation and metabolism. The gut microbiota has been linked to various health conditions, including cancer, and alterations in its composition could have implications for cancer risk.
- Improved Cancer Outcomes in Obese Individuals: For individuals who already have cancer, studies have suggested that bariatric surgery might improve cancer outcomes, particularly in obese patients. Weight loss and metabolic changes induced by surgery may enhance the response to cancer medications.
Conclusion
It’s important to emphasize that while there is evidence suggesting a potential link between bariatric surgery and cancer outcomes, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved and to establish clear cause-and-effect relationships. Additionally, the impact of bariatric surgery on cancer risk and outcomes may vary depending on the specific type of cancer and individual factors. Therefore, individuals considering bariatric surgery should discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare providers.
