Obesity is a condition where there is excessive accumulation of fat in the body, which causes excess body weight. Obesity is commonly caused by the high intake of calories which is not accompanied byphysical activity. This is what causes the accumulation of fat in the body.

There are several ways you can do to overcome obesity. Besides doing routine exercise, undergoing bariatric surgery can be a good option. This procedure is a shortcut that can help speed up the process of losing weight. Not only helps to eliminate fat in the body, the procedure can also reduce the risk of other diseases, one of which is skin cancer (melanoma).

Melanoma is a type of cancer that attacks the skin pigment cells that produce melanin. Melanin protects skin from damage and absorbs UV rays. The emergence of moles or changes in existing moles are common symptoms of melanoma.

In the results of a study published in the JAMA Dermatology journal, researchers found that undergoing bariatric surgery can reduce the risk of melanoma by 57%. The researchers explained that obesity is a factor that can cause chronic systemic inflammation, which can create a good environment for tumor. Therefore, losing weight and fat in the body can help reduce the risk of cancer.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Pixabay

Source(s):

• Taube, M., Peltonen, M., Sjoholm, K., et al (2020). Association of Bariatric Surgery With Skin Cancer Incidence in Adults With Obesity. JAMA Dermatology, DOI: 10.1001 / houradermatol.2019.3240.
• Medical News Today - Weight loss surgery reduces skin cancer risk (2020). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327410.php#1, 13 January 2020.