How Cancer Risk and Obesity are Linked

What are the numbers?

• A body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 30 kg/m2 defines overweight
• A BMI greater than 30 kg/m2 defines obesity
• The number of overweight and obese individuals in the U.S. has consistently increased over the past 50 years
• The latest data shows 75% of adults and 33% of children are considered overweight or obese
• SEER Epidemiology data suggest that each 5-point increase in BMI results in an increased risk of developing cancer that ranges from 13% to 60% depending on cancer type

 What cancer type and what may be the mechanism?

• Esophageal, colorectal, pancreatic, kidney cell, postmenopausal breast and endometrial cancers
• weight-associated changes in the synthesis and action of sex hormones, insulin, insulin-like growth factor and other cellular growth factors
• systematic inflammation, oxidative stress and altered immune response

Moderation in both diet and exercise can be cancer preventing. More information can be found at www.chemotherapyadvisor.com

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., 
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

How Blood Pressure Meds Increase Lip Cancer Risk

Recent Studies and their Results

The November California Dental Association Journal reports that according to a recent study in Archives of Internal Medicine, the risk for lip cancer increases with long-term use of antihypertensive drugs.
Researchers identified 712 patients with lip cancer compared to 22,904 matched individuals.  The lip cancer group was taking antihypertensive drugs hydrochlorothiazide and nifedipine.  These drugs are photosensitizing--they create greater sensitivity to sun exposure, especially with long term use.
It would seem a good idea, then, to use a lip balm with an adequate SPF rating, not only for moisture but also for disease prevention.
Source:  Archives of Internal Medicine, 172(16):1246-51, 2012

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics.
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170 Bakersfield, CA 93309