Updating the role of obesity and cholesterol in breast cancer

Laura Garcia-EstevezEmail author and
Gema Moreno-Bueno

Breast Cancer Research201921:35

https://doi.org/10.1186/s13058-019-1124-1

Published: 1 March 2019

Abstract

Background

Breast cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death among women. Advances in our understanding of the disease have translated into better diagnostics and more effective therapeutics, leading to earlier detection and improved outcomes. Several studies have pointed at lifestyle and environmental factors as contributory for the onset and progression of the disease. Obesity and cholesterol stand out for their potential causal relationship with breast cancer and ease of modification.

Main text

Obesity and cholesterol represent risk factors for breast cancer, but their impact is largely affected by cofounding variables including menopausal status, disease subtype, and inflammation. Establishing a causal relationship between lifestyle factors and clinical outcomes may be challenging. Epidemiological studies and meta-analyses have rendered conflicting or sometimes contradictory results, possibly owing to the multifactorial nature of the disease. We discuss the supporting evidence and limitations in our understanding of obesity and cholesterol as risk factors for breast cancer.

Conclusions

There is sufficient evidence that obesity and cholesterol impact clinical outcomes. Physicians are advised to take steps to help patients with their weight, such as recommending dietary and lifestyle interventions.