Television doctor Amir Khan has highlighted a startling connection between obesity and breast cancer, sparking important conversations about health risks. The full-time GP, known for his appearances on ITV programmes such as Lorraine and Good Morning Britain, delved into this critical topic during a recent episode of his podcast, No Appointment Necessary, co-hosted with Cherry Healey.
The Metabolic Activity of Fat Cells
In a video clip shared widely on social media, Cherry Healey posed a crucial question to Dr Khan: "Why does obesity increase your risk of breast cancer?" Dr Khan responded by challenging common misconceptions about body fat. He explained that many people mistakenly believe fat cells are inert, simply storing energy without any active role in the body.
However, Dr Khan emphasised that fat cells are, in fact, highly metabolically active and can be harmful. He detailed how these cells release hormones, including oestrogen, which plays a significant role in breast cancer development. Cherry expressed astonishment at this revelation, exclaiming, "You blow my mind! Fat cells release oestrogen?"
How Fat Cells Contribute to Cancer Risk
Dr Khan further elaborated on the mechanisms at play. Beyond releasing oestrogen, fat cells also secrete chemicals that promote cell division. He warned that when cells divide at an accelerated rate, the likelihood of genetic errors increases substantially. These errors can, over time, lead to the formation of cancerous cells, thereby elevating the risk of breast cancer.
The podcast episode, titled 'The shocking link between obesity and breast cancer', aimed to raise awareness about this under-discussed issue. The accompanying caption urged listeners to reconsider their understanding of body fat, stating: "Think body fat just sits there doing nothing? THINK AGAIN."
NHS Guidelines on Reducing Breast Cancer Risk
In alignment with Dr Khan's insights, the NHS provides clear recommendations for women looking to lower their risk of breast cancer. Key advice includes striving to achieve a healthy weight if overweight, as obesity is a modifiable risk factor. Additionally, the NHS advises reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking, both of which are linked to various cancers.
Recognising Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Early detection remains vital in the fight against breast cancer. The NHS outlines several symptoms that individuals should monitor closely:
- A lump or swelling in the breast, chest, or armpit area
- Changes in the skin texture of the breast, such as dimpling (often resembling orange peel) or redness (which may be less visible on darker skin tones)
- Alterations in the size or shape of one or both breasts
- Nipple discharge, particularly if it contains blood and occurs outside of pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Changes in the nipple's appearance, including inversion or a rash that may look like eczema
- Persistent pain in the breast or armpit that does not subside (noting that intermittent breast pain is typically not a symptom of breast cancer)
Dr Khan's discussion underscores the importance of public health education and proactive lifestyle choices. By understanding the active role fat cells play in hormone regulation and cell division, individuals can make more informed decisions about their health and well-being.
