Nowadays, children are glued to mobile phones and OTT platforms and prefer to spend time indoors. This not only negatively impacts their eyesight, IQ, and social skills, but also poses a significant, silent threat.

According to Dr. Swati Bhayna (Consultant - Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Bone Marrow Transplant) at Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, childhood obesity can lead to hormone-related cancers in adulthood. Research shows that being overweight in childhood increases the risk of developing cancer in the future by 9% to 30%.

How does obesity become a 'fertile soil' for cancer?
It's not just that an overweight child will eventually become an obese adult. In fact, the biological environment of an overweight child's body acts as a 'fertile soil' for the growth of cancer cells. We often blame microwaves, plastic, or polished food for cancer, but keeping the body healthy and fit is the only way to eliminate this risk.

Obesity causes persistent mild inflammation, excess estrogen, DNA damage, and hormonal imbalances. All of these can lead to cancer in the long run.

How does 'extra fat' harm your child's health?
Childhood obesity not only leads to cancer, but also to high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, asthma, and bone and joint problems in adulthood. As for cancer, the list is quite long. Obesity increases the risk of leukemia, Hodgkin's, breast, esophageal, stomach, colorectal, endometrial, ovarian, thyroid, and pancreatic cancers.

Obesity in young girls can cause puberty to arrive too early or too late. This condition is a major risk factor for breast and reproductive organ cancers later in life. Additionally, if a child is battling a disease like leukemia (blood cancer) and is also obese, it can be very difficult for them to complete chemotherapy. Obesity is also a major cause of cancer deaths.

The Risk of 'Normal Weight Obesity'
Scientists say that a child's BMI is a significant risk factor for cancer, even if their blood cholesterol, sugar, or blood pressure are normal. Studies are also being conducted on 'normal weight obesity,' which means a child has a normal weight and BMI, but a high proportion of body fat. This is also being linked to childhood cancer.

What can parents do?
Even if a child doesn't reach the ideal weight, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of cancer:

For children under 5 years of age: Ensure they engage in physically active play.

For children aged 6 to 18: 1 to 2 hours of vigorous physical activity every day is essential. This should include cycling, sports, running, jumping, and hanging.

Eating Changes: Emphasize eating home-cooked meals with the entire family instead of ordering food online. Feed children seasonal fruits and vegetables and avoid cold drinks.

Screen Time and Sleep: Reduce children's mobile phone and TV time, encourage them to engage in physical activities, and ensure they get adequate and sound sleep.

Remember, preventing obesity in children isn't just about looking good or being fit; it's a fundamental step in preventing life-threatening diseases like cancer in the future.

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