Obesity, Physical Activity, and Cancer Incidence in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries and the UK
Author Information
Author(s): Gaskell Christine, Lutimba Stuart, Bendriss Ghizlane, Aleem Eiman
Primary Institution: Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha; London South Bank University
Hypothesis
This study aimed to examine the association between obesity, physical activity, and cancer in both regions to elucidate cancer epidemiology and risk factors.
Conclusion
The study found significant associations between obesity and cancer in both regions, with a higher incidence in the UK compared to the GCCCs.
Supporting Evidence
- Approximately 40% of cancer is due to modifiable lifestyle factors including obesity and physical activity.
- The age-standardized rate of cancer in the UK is double to triple that in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries.
- Significant associations between obesity and cancer were found in both regions.
- Breast cancer was most common in the UK, while colorectal cancer was most common across the GCCCs.
- The presence of both obesity and physical inactivity was associated with a significantly higher cancer incidence.
Takeaway
Being overweight or not active can make you more likely to get cancer, especially in the UK where obesity rates are higher.
Methodology
The study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 64 studies from 2016 to 2023, analyzing data on obesity, physical activity, and cancer incidence.
Potential Biases
Some studies had potential selection bias due to geographical focus.
Limitations
The study faced limitations such as high heterogeneity among studies and a lack of region-specific data from the GCCCs.
Participant Demographics
The studies included a diverse population from the UK and GCCCs, with a higher mean number of female participants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p ≤ 0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 0.0605, 0.1771
Statistical Significance
p ≤ 0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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