Study Finds Genetic Link Between Obesity and Colon Cancer

The discovery of a genetic link between obesity and colon cancer may pave the way for more effective screening tests for the disease, according to a study published Tuesday.

Researchers found that people who inherit a variation of a gene called ADIPOQ, which results in the formation of a fat hormone called adiponectin, are 30 percent less likely to develop colon cancer.

Obesity - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Complications, Treatment
Obesity is a condition where there is excess accumulation of body fat which poses a risk to the health of the individual. It can affect children and adults.

People identified without this gene variant, or who have excessive blood levels of the fat hormone, would therefore benefit from early colon examinations, said Boris Pasche, professor at the University of Alabama Comprehensive Cancer Center and lead author of the study.

"Our hope is that we can significantly improve the screening and early detection for this disease, and open new avenues for better understanding the genetic and lifestyle factors that influence colon cancer risk," said Pasche.

A third of people with colon cancer have a family history of the disease, he said.

Colorectal Cancer - Types, Causes, Risk Factors, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prognosis & Prevention
Colorectal cancer is a cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men.

Scientists have already proven a link between obesity and genetics, and that colon cancer is influenced by genetics.

The latest study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, is the first to prove a three-way connection between genetics, obesity and colon cancer risk.

Colo-rectal Cancer - Management
Treatment for Colorectal Cancers may involve surgery,chemotherapy, radiation therapy or biological therapy. Some people require a combination of treatments.

The study showed that test subjects who did not have the genetic variation could reduce their risk through physical exercise and dieting to lose weight.

Colon cancer is the third deadliest cancer in the United States.

Colonoscopy Procedure
An animation of Colonoscopy that shows the appearance of large intestine or colon by using a thin and flexible viewing tube called the colonoscope.

Nearly 150,000 Americans are diagnosed each year, and 50,000 of those diagnosed die from the disease, according to estimates from the American Cancer Society.

Source-AFP
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