New research presented at the Endocrine Society’s ENDO 2024 annual meeting suggests that almost one in five breast cancer survivors may experience weight gain of more than 10% of their body weight after their treatment. This weight gain increases the risk of cancer recurrence and cardiovascular disease. Factors such as having an initial lower weight, hormone-positive breast cancer, and undergoing chemotherapy contribute to this weight gain. Researchers hope to identify these factors early on to prevent weight gain and improve outcomes for breast cancer survivors.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States after skin cancer. It affects one in three new cancer cases in females annually. The survival rate for breast cancer varies depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed, with a five-year survival rate of 99% for localized cancer and 31% for distant cancer. Approximately four million breast cancer survivors live in the United States, with 25% to 30% at risk of recurrence. Weight gain is a known risk factor for cancer recurrence, as it can lead to increased levels of estrogen that stimulate estrogen-driven breast cancers and create an inflammatory state in the body.
Maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and adopting a healthy diet are recommended strategies for reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence. Losing weight can improve physical functioning and quality of life for breast cancer survivors, as well as reduce the risk of developing other forms of cancer and chronic diseases. While it is important for survivors to try to reach and maintain a healthy weight, they should not feel shame or guilt about weight gain. Weight gain in breast cancer survivors can be a consequence of the illness and treatment, and survivors may have different perspectives on life and priorities after facing a life-threatening illness.
Experts emphasize the importance of identifying factors contributing to weight gain in breast cancer survivors early in the survivorship course to prevent excess weight gain and improve outcomes. Genetic mutations, aggressive breast cancer treatments, tumor characteristics, and younger age are among the factors associated with weight gain of more than 10% of body weight in breast cancer survivors. By recognizing these factors, healthcare providers can implement measures to prevent weight gain and promote healthy longevity in breast cancer survivors.
Obesity is associated with an increased risk of cancer, breast cancer, and cancer recurrence. Adipose tissue can metabolize estrogens and create an inflammatory state in the body, contributing to a higher risk of breast cancer development. Breast cancer survivors are advised to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, such as maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and eating a healthy diet, to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. While weight gain after breast cancer treatment is a common concern, survivors should not feel ashamed or guilty about it, as it is a consequence of the illness and treatment. Research suggests that maintaining a normal body weight can provide as much benefit in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence as pharmacologic interventions.
