The Link Between Cancer and Obesity

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The cause of breast cancer is of critical importance to me not only as a woman, but because my best friend Tammie's mother lost her fight against breast cancer over 15 years ago.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in America (heart disease is the first). But I was astonished to learn that statistics related to cancer deaths in the United States has proven without a doubt that the risk of dying from cancer increases with increasing degrees of obesity.

Research shows that men with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater—100 plus pounds over their ideal body weight—have a 52 percent higher death rate for cancer. Women whose BMI is 40 or more have a 62 percent higher death rate.

The good news is that certain lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and increased physical activity, can help reduce the risk of developing cancer and can give you the energy your body needs to heal after breast cancer.

Obesity specialist, Dr. Denise Bruner, recommends the following in combating cancer risk:

• Drinking at least 64 ounces of water daily

• Limiting or avoiding processed foods

• Limiting white sugar, white flour and simple carbohydrates

• Consuming as many organically grown and hormone-free foods as possible

• Taking a multi-vitamin containing antioxidants, preferably one free of yeast, dyes, sugar, dairy, soy, corn or gluten.

It seems that obesity is linked to so many harmful conditions. A well-balanced approach to healthy living and nutrition is an excellent weapon of coping with cancer.

In fact, for great insight into the blending of both taste and science in combating cancer, you should read my fellow Dream Team member Rebecca Katz's new book The Cancer Fighting Kitchen.

Rebecca has filled the book full of her own wisdom as well as that of America's foremost integrative oncologist, physicians, and cancer-wellness professionals. It's proof of the positive impact diet and nutrition can have on this disease.

As we acknowledge October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy to those who have lost loved ones to this disease. And I want to send out my enthusiastic support for education, research and prevention initiatives.

For more information about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, visit NBCAM.org or cancer.org.

I'd love to hear from you. Feel free to e-mail me at AskJulieHadden@Guideposts.com.

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