Higher colorectal cancer risk due to weight gain in adolescence

A weight gain of 15.2 kilograms on average between the ages of 18 and 25 years is associated with an increased colorectal cancer risk. Men are particularly at risk.

(Image: Juan Gärtner / fotolia.com)

In their meta-analysis, the research team evaluated data from 12 international observational studies. In total, these studies included the data from 16,151 people initially diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

The scientists found that the starting weight had no influence on the colorectal cancer risk. Per 5 kilograms that participants gained over the years (averaging 12.2 years), the risk of colorectal cancer increased by 4%. The observed risk relationship for colorectal cancer was somewhat more pronounced in males than in females, with no significant gender differences in rectal cancer.

The scientists sum up: In order to minimize the risk of colon cancer, it is important to pay attention to a normal body weight and above all a normal body fat percentage at a young age. The results confirm the assumption that body fat in particular plays a crucial role in the disease. (Pm)