Metabolic dysregulation in obese women and the carcinogenesis of gynecological tumors: A review

Dragana Tomić Naglić; Aljoša Mandić; Andrijana Milankov; Slađana Pejaković; Stefan Janičić; Nikolina Vuković; Ivana Bajkin; Tijana Ičin; Mia Manojlović; Edita Stokić

doi:10.17305/bb.2024.10508

Authors

Dragana Tomić Naglić University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia
Aljoša Mandić University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Institute of Oncology of Vojvodina, Sremska Kamenica, Serbia
Andrijana Milankov University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5815-3892
Slađana Pejaković University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia
Stefan Janičić University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1826-9721
Nikolina Vuković University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8892-4325
Ivana Bajkin University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia
Tijana Ičin University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3886-6518
Mia Manojlović University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5176-5650
Edita Stokić University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia; Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad, Serbia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17305/bb.2024.10508

Keywords:

Obesity, cancer, gynecological malignancies, metabolic disorders

Abstract

Obesity is a significant health issue associated with increased cancer risks, including gynecological malignancies. The worldwide rise in obesity rates is significantly impacting both cancer development and treatment outcomes. Adipose tissue plays a crucial role in metabolism, secreting various substances that can influence cancer formation. In obese individuals, dysfunctional adipose tissue can contribute to cancer development through inflammation, insulin resistance, hormonal changes, and abnormal cholesterol metabolism. Studies have shown a strong correlation between obesity and gynecological cancers, particularly endometrial and breast cancers. Obesity not only increases the risk of developing these cancers but is also associated with poorer outcomes. Additionally, obesity affects the perioperative management of gynecological cancers, requiring specialized care due to increased complications and resistance to therapy. Treatment strategies for managing metabolic dysregulation in patients with gynecological cancers include weight management, statin therapy, and insulin-sensitizing medications. Emerging studies suggest that interventions like intermittent fasting and caloric restriction may enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments. Furthermore, targeting cholesterol metabolism, such as with statins or proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, shows potential in cancer therapy. In conclusion, addressing metabolic issues, particularly obesity, is crucial in preventing and treating gynecological malignancies. Personalized approaches focusing on weight management and metabolic reprogramming may improve outcomes in these patients.