Obesity has long been tied to cancer, but new research shows it’s not just about body size — it’s where fat is stored that matters. A study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that belly fat is strongly linked to certain cancers.
Researchers analyzed genetic data on five types of fat: abdominal, visceral, liver, pancreatic, and gluteofemoral (hips and thighs). Belly fat raised the risk for endometrial, esophageal, and liver cancers, while liver and visceral fat also fueled liver cancer. Surprisingly, fat stored in the hips and thighs appeared protective, lowering the risk of breast cancer and a type of brain tumor called meningioma.
Experts say these findings show the limits of using BMI alone, since it doesn’t reveal fat distribution. Central obesity is especially dangerous, as it drives inflammation and hormone changes that promote cancer. Doctors emphasize that prevention strategies should focus not just on losing weight, but also on monitoring where fat is stored.
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