Insights into the Link Between Obesity and Cancer

Abstract

Purpose of review: Adipocytes have adapted to store energy in the form of lipid and also secrete circulating factors called adipokines that signal to other tissues to coordinate energy homeostasis. These functions are disrupted in the setting of obesity, promoting the development of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

Recent findings: Obesity is linked to an increased risk of many types of cancer and increased cancer-related mortality. The basis for the striking association between obesity and cancer is not well understood. Here, we review the cellular and molecular pathways that appear to be involved in obesity-driven cancer. We also describe possible therapeutic considerations and highlight important unanswered questions in the field.

Keywords: Adipocyte; Adipokine; Adiponectin; Cancer; Leptin; Metastasis; Obesity; Tumor microenvironment.