Introduction

Cervical cancer is a cancer of the cervix. The cervix is a low, narrow part of the uterus that connects the uterus with the vagina. Cancer occurs when the cervix cells undergo changes known as ‘dysplasia’. These changes cause abnormal cells to appear within the cervical tissue, which may turn into cancer and spread to the surrounding regions.¹

According to studies, being overweight or obese is associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. For example, research has shown that excess body fat can influence hormone levels and immune function, contributing to cancer development. Another study highlighted that women with higher body mass indices (BMIs) had a significantly greater likelihood of developing cervical cancer compared to those with normal BMIs. These results highlight the essential importance of weight control in preventing cancer.⁴

Overview of cervical cancer

Causes and risk factors

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is the most predominant cause of most cervical cancers. Persistent infections caused by the most high-risk types of HPV lead to the development of cervical cancers. For the majority of individuals, the virus does not cause any issues and typically resolves on its own. However, in some cases, the virus can induce cellular changes that may progress to cancer.²

Risk factors

• Smoking:
  • Smoking can increase the risk of cervical cancer² 
  • It damages the DNA of cervix cells and weakens the immune system
• Weak immune system:
  • A weakened immune system, due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or medications that suppress immune function, can increase the risk²
• Multiple sexual partners:
  • Having many sexual partners or a partner with many other partners increases the chance of HPV infection³
• Early sexual activity:
  • Beginning sexual activity at a young age increases the risk of HPV infection
• Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):
  • Having other STIs, such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea can increase the risk of HPV infection
• Birth control pills:
  • Long-term use (more than five years) of oral contraceptives has been linked to a higher risk of cervical cancer²
• Multiple pregnancies:
  • Women who have had three or more full-term pregnancies may have an increased risk²
• Being overweight:
  • Excess weight can contribute to the risk of developing cervical cancer, possibly due to hormonal imbalances and increased inflammation associated with obesity⁴
• Family history:
  • A family history of cervical cancer can also increase the risk, suggesting a possible genetic predisposition
• Exposure to DES:
  • If your parent took diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy, your risk of cervical cancer might be higher
  • DES was used in the 40s and 50s to prevent miscarriage
  • It has been associated with an increased risk of a specific type of cervical cancer called clear-cell adenocarcinoma²

Screening for cervical cancer

• Pap smear:
  • A Pap smear is a test where cells from the cervix are collected and examined under a microscope to look for any changes or abnormalities that could indicate cervical cancer²
• HPV testing:
  • This test checks for the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in cervical cells, as certain types of HPV are known to cause cervical cancer

The link between cervical cancer and weight

Hormonal influences (Estrogen)

Excess body weight can lead to higher levels of estrogen, a hormone that can promote the growth of certain cancers, including cervical cancer.⁵

Inflammation and immune response

Being overweight often leads to chronic inflammation and a weakened immune system, which can make it easier for cancer to develop and progress.^4,5

Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome

• Being obese can lead to a condition called insulin resistance, where the body has trouble using insulin properly
• This can lead to higher insulin levels and other metabolic problems, which are linked to an increased risk of various cancers, including cervical cancer⁵

Weight as a risk factor for cervical cancer

Being overweight can make you more likely to have ongoing infections with HPV, which is the main cause of cervical cancer. This might be because extra weight can weaken your immune system.⁵ 

How does it affect cancer progression?

• Aggressive tumours: Overweight individuals might develop more aggressive forms of cervical cancer, which can grow and spread faster, making the disease harder to treat
• Other health issues: Being overweight often comes with other health problems, like diabetes and heart disease. These can make cervical cancer more difficult to manage and worsen the overall outcome⁵
• Immune system: Extra weight can affect your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off cancer cells and possibly leading to quicker cancer progression⁵

What are the possible outcomes after treatment?

• Surgical complications:
  • Overweight patients may have more complications during and after surgery, such as infections and slow healing, which can delay recovery⁶
• Radiation therapy:
  • Extra body fat can make it harder to aim radiation therapy precisely at cancer cells, which might reduce its effectiveness and increase side effects
• Chemotherapy:
  • It can be tricky to get the right chemotherapy dosage for overweight patients
  • Their bodies might also process the drugs differently
  • This can affect how well the treatment works and how severe the side effects are
• Recovery:
  • Being overweight can slow down physical recovery after treatment because of decreased mobility
  • It is also linked to higher morbidity⁶

Weight management and cervical cancer prevention

• Diet and nutrition
  • Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps maintain a healthy weight
  • Avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-fat foods can also contribute to better overall health and reduce cancer risk
• Physical activity
  • Regular physical activity helps you manage your weight and improve your overall health
  • At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like walking or cycling, most days of the week

Role of medical professionals in counselling and support

• Doctors, nurses, and dietitians can offer valuable advice and support for maintaining a healthy weight
• They can provide:
  • Personalised plans 
  • Tips for healthy eating
  • Exercise recommendations
• They are also there to motivate and guide you through your weight management journey, ensuring you have the resources and encouragement you need to stay healthy

FAQs

Does weight affect the risk of cervical cancer?

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of cervical cancer. It's important to maintain a healthy weight to lower this risk.

Can losing weight reduce the chances of getting cervical cancer?

Yes, losing weight can help lower the risk of cervical cancer. Eating healthy and staying active can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk.

Why is weight management important for preventing cervical cancer?

Weight management is important because excess weight can lead to hormonal changes in the body, which may increase the risk of cervical cancer. Keeping a healthy weight can help keep these hormones balanced.

How can I maintain a healthy weight to reduce my risk of cervical cancer?

You can maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and staying physically active. Limiting sugary drinks and unhealthy snacks can also help.

Summary

Cervical cancer originates in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. It's caused by abnormal cells growing out of control. Being overweight or obese can raise the chances of getting cervical cancer. When someone is overweight, their body may have more hormones, like estrogen, which can make cancer more likely to grow. Also, being overweight can make it harder for the immune system to fight off cancer cells.

Maintaining a healthy weight is important for lowering the chances of getting cervical cancer. Eating right, staying active, and getting regular check-ups are some of the best ways to stay healthy and lower the chance of getting cervical cancer.