When people think about weight management, they might be tempted to focus on appearance. But when it comes to cancer prevention and survivorship, weight wellness is about much more than a number on the scale. It is an important part of reducing cancer risk, supporting recovery and improving long-term health.
As we honor National Cancer Survivors Month, we’re sharing weight wellness insights and guidance.
“Weight wellness is one of the most powerful modifiable factors that affects both cancer risk and outcomes,” says Demytra Mihailidis, MD, an oncologist and hematologist with ThedaCare Cancer Care. “Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence, lower the odds of developing a second cancer, improve quality of life and decrease the risk of other serious health conditions such as cardiovascular disease.”
Weight Wellness-Cancer Connection
National Cancer Institute research has linked excess body weight to an increased risk of at least 13 cancers. These include postmenopausal breast, prostate, colorectal, endometrial, pancreatic, esophageal, uterine, head and neck, and gallbladder cancers.
Obesity contributes to chronic inflammation, hormone imbalances and metabolic changes that can encourage cancer development and growth. Excess fat tissue can increase levels of estrogen and insulin, both of which are associated with certain cancers.
“People often recognize obesity increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease, but fewer are aware of the strong link between obesity and cancer,” Dr. Mihailidis says. “Part of our role is educating people that excess body weight is a modifiable risk factor. We can empower them to make sustainable lifestyle changes.”
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Betsy Winnekens, APNP, a nurse practitioner with ThedaCare Weight Wellness Solutions, shares how the program can help people attain and maintain a healthy weight.
“Our focus isn’t weight loss only,” she says. “We’re working to improve metabolic health, preserve lean muscle mass, reduce chronic inflammation, support physical function and enhance long-term quality of life.”
Studies have shown the greater the weight gain, the greater the cancer risk.
“Childhood obesity also has been shown to be related to higher mortality risk with cancer in adulthood,” Winnekens says. “This may be part of what we are seeing more today as childhood obesity continues to rise.”
Weight Wellness and Cancer Survivorship
For cancer survivors, weight wellness becomes an important part of recovery and ongoing health.
Many cancer treatments can contribute to fatigue, muscle loss, decreased physical function and metabolic changes.
“Weight wellness helps restore a sense of control,” Winnekens says. “Many survivors gain confidence as they improve their strength, energy and physical health.”
In addition, research suggests maintaining a healthy body composition and staying physically active may help reduce recurrence risk for some cancers, particularly breast and colorectal cancers.
Weight wellness strategies also can help address treatment-related side effects and reduce the risk of conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Small Changes, Big Difference
One of the most encouraging messages is that meaningful health benefits come with losing as little as 5% to 10% of body weight.
“I often tell patients they do not need to reach an ideal weight to see health improvements,” Dr. Mihailidis says. “For someone who weighs 200 pounds, losing just 10 to 20 pounds can improve insulin resistance, decrease inflammatory markers, lower circulating estrogen levels, increase energy andimprove long-term outcomes.
“We approach these conversations with empathy and without judgment,” she adds.
Four Pillars of Weight Wellness
In thinking of maintaining a healthy weight, the Cancer Care and Weight Wellness Solutions teams encourage people to focus on four key areas:
- Nutrition: Choose protein- and fiber-rich diets as well as whole foods that support immune function, muscle maintenance and overall health.
- Movement: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, and include strength training.
- Sleep: Quality sleep supports tissue repair, hormone regulation, metabolism and immune health. Aim for at least seven to eight hours each night.
- Mental and Emotional Well-Being: Stress, anxiety and emotional health can influence eating habits, motivation and long-term success. Find stress management strategies that work for you or ask your health care team for help.
A Team Approach to Better Health
Modern weight wellness programs focus on health optimization over appearance. At ThedaCare, this involves individualized care that reduces the stigma and shame associated with obesity.
The multidisciplinary team within ThedaCare Weight Wellness Solutions includes physicians, nurse practitioners, registered dietitians, exercise physiologists and behavioral health professionals. They work closely with oncology and primary care teams to support individuals’ needs.
For some, additional options such as obesity medications or bariatric surgery may be appropriate as part of a comprehensive care plan.
Whether you’re focused on prevention, undergoing treatment or navigating life after cancer, weight wellness remains crucial.
“Small, sustainable changes matter far more than dramatic short-term weight loss in supporting a healthier future,” Dr. Mihailidis says.
Get started with ThedaCare Weight Solutions today.
