The evidence supporting increased risk for cancer in individuals with obesity has been well documented. The growing understanding of the complex biological mechanisms supporting the association between increased body adiposity and cancer risk warrants ongoing investigation into evidence-based interventions to support weight loss.

There is a concurrent growing appreciation in the medical community of the challenge to successfully achieve significant and sustainable weight loss due to factors impacting weight beyond diet and physical activity. This has led some dietetic practitioners to advocate for removal of weight loss from nutrition counseling and interventions to reduce negative psychological impact.

This challenge is further complicated in the oncology setting where the fear of contributing to one's own risk of cancer can result in profound distress and self-blame, creating a significant difficulty for oncology dietitians to effectively communicate the relationship between weight and cancer risk while not causing increased psychological harm.

The panel discussion includes experts in the fields of oncology nutrition and weight management who will provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence regarding weight and body composition on cancer risk, evidence-based intervention strategies and a thoughtful demonstration of compassionate language when discussing this topic.

Planned with the Oncology Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group