Obesity A Bigger Problem for Cancer Patients

Obesity remains one of the main topics of discussion across the United States. Many Southern California residents are under the impression that this is not an issue for people within our region. However, a quick look around at marketing for weight loss procedures like the lap band, and large programs for surgical weight loss proved that there are plenty of people within Southern California specifically Orange County battling obesity. According to recent online article obese cancer patients are likely to have worse outcomes than their leaner counterparts. Previous research has clearly established a link between obesity and cancer risk and shown that obesity is associated with a poorer prognosis, according to Mikhail Kolonin, an associate professor at the Institute of Molecular Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Cancer progression was studied specifically in specific research that was published in the Journal of Cancer Research. The researchers hypothesized that fat tissue which is called white adipose tissue (this is the fat tissue that becomes larger in patients who are obese) is directly associated with cancer. The first results confirmed their theory. In laboratory mice the tumors appeared to grow much faster. The research team found that cancer triggered andipose stromal cells to infiltrate the bloodstream. Once they were able to get to the tumors, some continue to develop in the fat cells; however, others were absorbed into the blood vessels and then provided oxygen and the necessary nutrients to tumors which boosted the cancer’s growth. It is significant to note that these cells are present within tumors and that they are functional and have an effect on the growth of tumors. Finding a way to block the cells may provide another avenue for cancer treatment. Dr. Seify consults with patients who have been successful in losing weight and are also at a stable weight. These patients often tell Dr. Seify that they do not expect the amount of loose and lax skin that was present following their weight loss. Most patients are concerned with loose skin from weight loss in the abdomen, arms, and thighs. For most patients the only way to reduce the amount of skin and create a more beautiful and toned appearance is plastic surgery. Most patients have abdominoplasty to remove the loose skin from the abdomen, brachioplasty to remove the loose skin from the underside of the upper arms, and thighplasty or thigh lift to remove the loose and lax skin on the thighs. For most patients it a be necessary to stage (perform at different times )the procedures for the best results and most comfortable patient experience. Patients were considering body contouring procedures are encouraged to contact Dr. Seify and schedule a consultation.