A recent study has found that metabolic syndrome and obesity have varying impacts on breast cancer risks. Researchers discovered that a higher metabolic score is associated with a greater mortality rate from breast cancer. Conversely, obesity was linked to a higher incidence of breast cancer. The study indicated that a low-fat diet has the potential to reduce breast cancer mortality. Over a 20-year follow-up period of 63,330 women without prior breast cancer, the research aimed to determine how obesity and metabolic syndrome affect postmenopausal breast cancer. The outcomes measured included breast cancer incidence, mortality, deaths post-breast cancer diagnosis, and hormone receptor status.
After analyzing the data, the researchers concluded that both metabolic syndrome and obesity have an impact on breast cancer; however, there are notable differences between the two. A higher metabolic score was associated with poor-prognosis estrogen-receptor (ER)-positive, progesterone receptor (PR)-negative breast cancers, as well as a 53% increase in deaths after a breast cancer diagnosis and a 44% higher breast cancer mortality. On the other hand, obesity was linked to a higher overall incidence of breast cancer and more good-prognosis ER-positive, PR-positive breast cancers. Obesity was also associated with an increase in deaths after a breast cancer diagnosis, with severe obesity being correlated with higher breast cancer mortality.
Dr. Parvin Peddi, a medical oncologist and director of Breast Medical Oncology, noted that both obesity and other components of metabolic syndrome, such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, can increase the incidence of breast cancer. The study suggested that targeting obesity would have a more significant effect on breast cancer incidence, while targeting metabolic syndrome would have a more substantial impact on breast cancer mortality. Dr. Jack Jacoub, a medical oncologist, emphasized the importance of controlling metabolic components through diet, lifestyle, and medications to reduce breast cancer risk. The study highlights the differential associations of obesity and metabolic syndrome with breast cancer outcomes.
Dr. Douglas Marks, a medical oncologist, pointed out that the study provides important insights into the biology of breast cancer and may influence future interventions. The research underscores the significance of considering obesity and metabolic syndrome in breast cancer risk prediction and counseling patients on their breast health. Addressing high metabolic syndrome metrics may have the greatest impact on reducing breast cancer mortality. Preventative strategies such as controlling glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol, as well as maintaining a healthy weight, are crucial in lowering the risk of developing breast cancer. Primary care physicians and OB/GYNs play a key role in discussing prevention strategies with patients. Overall, the study underlines the importance of understanding and addressing the interconnected relationship between metabolic syndrome, obesity, and breast cancer risks.
