Analysis of the Associations among Obesity, Exercise Habits, and Weight Change with Colorectal Cancer Risk: Utilizing Customized Data from the National Health Insurance Service
10.21215/kjfp.2025.15.1.54
- Author:
Young KO
1
;
Young-jae KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Public Health, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:
Korean Journal of Family Practice
2025;15(1):54-60
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Although numerous studies examined the association between obesity and colorectal cancer, comparatively less research has focused on the relationship between weight change and physical activity.
Methods:This study used health check-up data from the National Health Insurance Service. Participants aged 20–79 years who underwent health check-ups between 2004 and 2007 and again 10 years later were included. Differences were analyzed by dividing the weight change into groups that increased or decreased by 5%, 5%–20%, and 20% or more.
Results:Among men, a 5%–20% increase in body weight was significantly associated with a higher risk of colon cancer (hazard ratio [HR], 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05–1.52), even among those who exercised on at least 3 days a week. In contrast, women who had undergone a weight loss of more than 20% of their body weight were found to have a significantly reduced risk of colon cancer (HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.50–0.93). However, women who reduced their exercise frequency from 3 or more days per week to less than 3 days per week experienced a weight gain of 20% or more, which was associated with a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer (HR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.07–3.12).
Conclusion:These findings highlight the association between recent increases in colon cancer incidence and weight management, emphasizing the importance of maintain a healthy weight in mitigating obesity-related cancer risk.
