Large waists ‘increase women’s cancer risk’

Women with large waists have an increased risk of developing cancer, a health charity has warned, which could provide people with the necessary motivation to lose weight.

The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) highlighted statistics that show 44 per cent of women in England have an increased waist circumference, compared to 32 per cent of men.

According to the organisation, there is strong evidence that a large waistline is particularly associated with an increased risk of cancers of the bowel, pancreas, breast and womb lining.

“If you have a large waist measurement or are in the overweight or obese range, then you can take steps to move towards a healthy weight,” said Dr Rachel Thompson, deputy head of science at the WCRF.

Earlier this month, Yvonne Bishop-Weston, nutrition consultant at Foods For Life, said that people should be encouraged to include more than five portions of fruit and veg in their diets each day, as this will help to reduce their risk of developing cancer.

Are you trying to lose weight from your waist? If not, where?