The hidden danger of visceral obesity
On World Obesity Day, experts from the National Cancer Institute of Milan are raising an alarm: excess body fat is not just a concern for overweight individuals but also for those who appear to have a normal weight. This often-overlooked phenomenon can significantly increase the risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases and certain types of cancer.
The numbers behind obesity in Italy
In 2023, data revealed that 43% of Italian adults are overweight or obese, with peaks of 52% in Molise and 51% in Campania. Among children, the situation is equally concerning: 19% are overweight, and 10% are obese. The southern regions of Italy hold the record for excessive weight, with Campania reaching 44%. However, the real issue is not just weight but also its distribution.
“There are people who appear normal weight but have an excessive accumulation of visceral fat, the most dangerous for health,” explains Dr. Sabina Sieri from the National Cancer Institute of Milan. This condition, known as hidden obesity, increases the risk of insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, putting these individuals at the same health risks as those who are clinically obese.
The role of sedentary lifestyles and ultra-processed foods
A European study, EPIC, has confirmed the strong link between obesity and cancer, particularly cancers of the colon, prostate, endometrium, and pancreas. But why does Italy, the land of the Mediterranean diet, have such high obesity rates? Experts point to the rise of sedentary lifestyles and ultra-processed foods, which are calorie-dense, low in fiber, and formulated to increase appetite, leading to weight gain.
New strategies to fight obesity
In January, obesity was officially recognized as a standalone disease and not just a risk factor, paving the way for new prevention and treatment strategies. “The best approach remains the same,” says Professor Claudio Vernieri, oncologist at the National Cancer Institute of Milan: “a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and personalized medical support.”
Obesity and cancer prognosis
Obesity is not just a matter of prevention but also a challenge for those already fighting cancer. Professor Filippo De Braud, Director of the Department of Medical Oncology, highlights how excess weight can negatively impact cancer prognosis, impairing organ function and increasing the toxicity of treatments.
What do you think about this topic? Have you ever considered the risks of hidden obesity? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
