Patient-Friendly Explanation

Carrying extra weight increases the chance of developing breast cancer after menopause, and it can also delay detection because lumps are harder to feel. Fat tissue makes hormones and inflammation that encourage cancer cells to grow. Losing even five to ten per cent of body weight lowers this risk.

Clinical Definition

Obesity is an established risk factor for postmenopausal oestrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer, driven by aromatase-mediated oestrogen production in adipose tissue, hyperinsulinaemia and chronic low-grade inflammation. It is associated with larger tumours at diagnosis, higher recurrence rates and increased breast-cancer mortality. Sustained weight loss of five to ten per cent plus regular physical activity is associated with reduced risk and improved survivorship outcomes.

Why It Matters

Weight management is one of the few modifiable levers in breast-cancer prevention and survivorship, and it complements mammographic screening rather than replacing it. Framing weight loss as risk reduction gives patients a concrete reason to stay on programme.