The prevalence of overweight and obesity in a breast clinic population: consideration for weight loss as a therapeutic intervention

Abstract

Background: Obesity is an important risk factor for breast cancer and weight loss may be associated with a decreased risk for breast cancer and its recurrence. We evaluated the prevalence of overweight, obesity, and obesity-related co-morbidities in a breast health clinic population to determine the potential need for weight loss intervention.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of sequential patients seen at a breast health clinic from July 1 to December 31, 2011. Body mass index (BMI), reason for visit (breast cancer diagnosis, high risk for breast cancer, or benign condition), and presence of obesity-related co-morbidities were recorded.

Results: The 302 patients who met inclusion criteria had a median age of 52 years (10-91) and median BMI of 26 kg/m(2) (15.4-56.5). Overall, 36.8% of patients had a BMI between 18.5-24.9 kg/m(2); 32.1%, 25-29.9 kg/m(2); 14.2%, 30-34.9 kg/m(2); 8.3%, 35-39.9 kg/m(2); and 4.3%, ≥ 40 kg/m(2). Overweight or obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m(2)) occurred in 64.2% of breast cancer, 65.0% of high-risk, and 57.1% of benign patients (P value not significant). Criteria for bariatric surgery (BMI 35-39.9 kg/m(2) with ≥ 1 obesity-related co-morbidity or BMI ≥ 40 kg/m(2)) were met in 8.2% of breast cancer, 16.7% of high-risk, and 11.5% of benign patients (P value not significant).

Conclusions: Regardless of diagnosis, a significant proportion of patients visiting the breast health clinic meet criteria for weight loss intervention, including bariatric surgery. Weight management represents an underutilized therapeutic modality that could potentially decrease the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence, and improve overall prognosis.

Keywords: Bariatric surgery; Breast cancer; Increased risk for breast cancer; Obesity; Weight loss.