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FEBRUARY 19, 2008 — If losing weight is currently
on your ‘to do’ list – whether prompted by the
new year, an upcoming high school reunion, or simply dread of the
impending bathing suit season, there is now even more incentive
to make it happen.
New information suggests that you can help ward off cancer by watching
your weight. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society,
(ACS) up to 20 percent of all cancer deaths in the United States
are linked to obesity.
“It’s time that we recognize the serious role excess
weight plays in the development of chronic diseases – particularly
in the development of different types of cancer,” says Dr.
Sudha Kavuru, Chief of Hematology and Oncology at Kimball Medical
Center.
That role came into the spotlight recently, when the findings of
a large scale study exploring how diet and lifestyle relate to cancer
incidence were released by the World Cancer Research Fund.
“One of the most significant findings of that study,”
says Dr. Kavuru, “was that when it comes to cancer, the leaner
you are, the better.” The data revealed that numerous types
of cancers occur more often in people who are overweight.
Dr. Kavuru says most experts believe that excess body fat can increase
hormones that in turn promote tumor growth.
“The study also revealed that it’s not just people
who are obese that are at risk, even people who are moderately overweight
– those with a body mass index (BMI) of more than 25 –
are more prone to certain kinds of cancer than those of normal weight,
particulary if they don’t get regular exercise,” says
Dr. Kavuru.
"The study clearly demonstrated that older post menopausal
women that are overweight substantially increase their risk for
breast cancer," said Dr. Kavuru. “And overweight men
substantially increase their risk for prostate cancer, and it doesn’t
end there.” Increased rates of colon, kidney, thyroid and
esophageal cancers have also been linked to excess weight.
In order to cut your risk for developing cancer, Dr. Kavuru recommends
working toward becoming as lean as possible within your normal weight
range. “Talk to your doctor if you think your weight might
be affecting your overall risk for cancer. Together you can develop
a plan for healthy living that can help you reduce your overall
risk,” she adds. In addition, she recommends following the
ACS guidelines which Include incorporating 30 to 60 minutes of exercise
daily, most days of the week, adding five servings of vegetables
to your daily diet, limiting your intake of red meat, and limiting
alcohol consumption to only two alcoholic drinks a day for men;
one a day for women.
"If you incorporate those strategies as part of your healthy
living plan," says Dr. Kavuru, "you'll enhance the benefits
you get in terms of weight loss and cancer prevention."
To contact Dr. Sudha Kavuru, or to find another Oncologist/ Hematologist
affiliated with Kimball Medical Center, please call
1-888-SBHS-123.
Kimball Medical Center’s Cancer program provides a full range
of treatment for all stages and sites of cancer. These advanced
techniques are enhanced with valuable support services like oncology
nursing, nutritional counseling, hospice care, home care, rehabilitation,
social services and pastoral counseling to meet the physical, emotional
and spiritual needs of patients and family members.
Kimball Medical Center is an affiliate of the Saint Barnabas Health
Care System, the largest integrated health care delivery system
in New Jersey. Located in Lakewood, Kimball Medical Center is a
fully accredited, 350-bed facility offering the most advanced, ultra-modern
diagnostic and treatment services. Kimball offers comprehensive
rehabilitative services featuring The Balance Center and an advanced
sports medicine program. Kimball is also the recipient of the Magnet
Award for nursing excellence. The Center for Healthy Living at Kimball
offers a wide variety of programs and services for area families,
children and seniors, including community education programs, support
groups and school based initiatives.
CONTACT: Kristine A. Brown
Director of Public Relations
(732) 557-3902
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