Obese kids at 'increased cancer risk' as adults

Melbourne, Feb 2 (ANI): Overweight and obese kids are at an increased risk of developing cancer in later life, according to experts.

Professor Ian Olver, Chief Executive of Cancer Council Australia, points out that overweight and obese kids often become the next generation of overweight and obese adults who, in turn, have a "significantly increased" risk of developing cancer.

"Put these together and we're facing a potential spike in obesity-related cancers, including breast and bowel cancer, over the next few decades," The Age quoted Prof Olver as saying.

He urged to adopt comprehensive steps to deal with the increasing rates of obesity.

Olver highlighted the urgency for the Australian Government to adopt its own Preventative Health Taskforce's recommendations for tackling obesity.

"The test will be the government's willingness to implement the taskforce's recommendations, which will require tough decisions around food marketing, production and labelling, and building communities that support physical activity," Prof Olver added. (ANI)