When was the last time you measured your waistline? If you assume that BMI is the only number to focus on when it comes to your health, think twice. New research has revealed a shocking revelation—your waist circumference might be a far better predictor of men's cancer risk than BMI.

The study finds that for each 4-inch increase in waist size, a man's risk of cancer increases by a staggering 25%. Meanwhile, BMI, commonly regarded as the gold standard for assessing obesity, raises cancer risk by only 19% for the same weight gain. So, if you've been dismissing that pesky belly fat, it's time to take notice.

But why is your waistline so important? The reason is visceral fat—the hidden, deep fat that accumulates around your organs. Unlike other body fat, visceral fat is a stealthy troublemaker, causing inflammation, insulin resistance, and abnormal blood fat levels—all of which combine to create a cancer-perfect storm.

Obesity has been associated with an increased risk of numerous health conditions, including cancer, for decades. The research, though, indicates that a specific measure of the body—waist circumference—may be an even more reliable forecaster of cancer risk in men than the more frequently employed Body Mass Index (BMI). This finding emphasizes the need to pay particular attention to the distribution of fat and not merely to the weight of the body.

BMI has been the go-to measure for years for gauging health risks related to obesity. New research, though, that appears in The Journal of the National Cancer Institute indicates that waist measurement is a better predictor of cancer risk in men. According to the research, four more inches (10 cm) around the waist will add 25% to a man's cancer risk. Conversely, a 3.7 kg/m² rise in BMI (from a BMI of 24 to 27.7) increased cancer risk by only 19%.

Why is waist circumference a better predictor, then? Unlike BMI, which measures weight relative to height, waist circumference actually measures abdominal fat—specifically, visceral fat. This type of fat encircles internal organs and is also linked to higher levels of inflammation, insulin resistance, and abnormal blood lipids, all of which are factors in cancer growth. BMI, however, does not measure fat distribution, so two individuals with the same BMI can have very different levels of health risk depending on where fat is deposited on their bodies.

Why Men Are at Higher Risk?

Interestingly, the research identified a significant difference between men and women when it came to waist circumference and cancer risk. Although waist circumference and BMI were linked with obesity-related cancers in women, the relationship was weaker than for men. An increase of 12 cm (4.7 inches) in waist size or a 4.3 rise in BMI (from 24 to 28.3) raised the cancer risk in women by just 13%—a much lower percentage than for men.

Experts credit this difference to the way that fat is stored in the body. Men are more likely to carry fat around the abdomen, especially as visceral fat, which is more metabolically active and associated with cancer-producing biological alterations. Women, by contrast, store fat in peripheral sites such as the hips and thighs, where it is less likely to drive systemic inflammation and metabolic disturbances.

A possible reason is that men tend to depot fat more in the visceral regions, whereas women tend to carry more subcutaneous and peripheral fat," wrote the researchers. "This may render waist circumference a more robust risk factor for cancer in men and account for why waist circumference provides additional risk information beyond BMI in men but not women."

Cancer Types Most Linked to Abdominal Fat

The research used the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) data to define obesity-related cancers. These cancers are esophageal (adenocarcinoma), gastric (cardia), colorectal, rectal, liver, gallbladder, pancreatic, renal, and thyroid cancers, and multiple myeloma and meningioma. In men, abdominal obesity is especially significant in raising the risk of these cancers through high levels of insulin and markers of inflammation.

For women, the research proposes that both waist circumference and hip circumference may give a more accurate estimate of visceral fat and cancer risk. "Adding hip circumference to risk models could strengthen the link between waist circumference and cancer, especially in women," researchers observed.

What This Means for Men's Health and Cancer Prevention?

With these results, doctors advise men to be more mindful of their waistline than only their BMI. Waist size is an easy method to gauge health risk, and its maintenance through lifestyle changes might be the key to cancer prevention.

How To Reduce Cancer Risk In Men?

Track Your Waist Size: Regularly measure your waist circumference and try to keep it in a healthy range (below 40 inches for men, according to medical advice).

Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet containing high fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats can assist in limiting visceral fat gain.

Exercise Consistently: Regular exercise with a combination of aerobic and strength training will help maintain a healthy waistline.

Control Stress and Sleep: Persistent stress and inadequate sleep tend to cause weight gain, especially in the midsection of the body.

Regular Health Screenings: Early identification of cancer risk factors through regular screening can greatly enhance long-term health status.

The journey of a breast cancer patient does not end when their treatment comes to a conclusion. There is always a risk of recurrence, which makes regular follow-ups and adherence to treatment important.

At the Times Network India Health Summit and Awards 2026 in New Delhi, a panel formed by Dr Priya Parmar, Chief Operating Officer, Indian Cancer Society, Delhi, Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa - Principal Lead of Medical and Precision Oncology, Apollo Athena Women’s Cancer Centres, New Delhi and Apollo Hospital, Gurgaon, Dr. Meenu Walia, Chairman Medical Oncology, Max Healthcare, Dr Pankaj Goyal, Sr Consultant and Unit Head, Medical Oncology, RGCI, and Vaishali Iyer, Country Head, Communications, Patient Advocacy and CSR, Novartis in India, discussed the big picture after breast cancer treatment.

During a panel discussion titled “Take Charge Together: Shaping a Future of Greater Breast Cancer Awareness and Better Outcomes,” experts highlighted the physical, emotional, social and financial challenges that women may continue to face after treatment among many more.

What Comes After Breast Cancer Treatment?

For many women, the period after breast cancer can involve more than medical monitoring. They may face fatigue, menopausal symptoms and changes in body image after undergoing a major physical change, while concerns about intimacy, fertility and relationships can affect emotional and mental well-being.

Dr. Priya Parmar highlighted how losing a breast or hair can affect a woman's sense of identity and femininity. Some survivors also face social stigma related to marriage and fertility, while sexual health and relationship concerns may remain difficult to discuss.

The burden can be greater for women who lack family support or have limited financial resources. These circumstances may affect not only emotional recovery but also their ability to attend follow-up appointments and continue treatment.

The financial strain can become particularly difficult if cancer returns and further investigations or treatment are required.

Dr. Meenu Walia said that treatment for advanced disease can add to the economic burden faced by patients and their families.

Also read: Vanessa Trump Recovers From 'Very Invasive' Breast Cancer, Reveals Early Sign Of The Disease

Risk Of Recurrence

The risk of breast cancer recurrence is not the same for every patient. It depends on the cancer's stage and subtype, tumour grade, lymph node involvement, response to treatment and whether treatment is timely.

Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa explained that different breast cancer subtypes can follow different recurrence patterns.

Triple-negative breast cancer tends to recur earlier, often within the first two to three years after treatment. Hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, however, can return even 10 to 20 years later.

She also said that patients who achieve a pathological complete response after treatment given before surgery may have a lower risk of recurrence than those with residual disease.

However, a lower estimated risk does not mean the risk is eliminated. Continued monitoring is important even for patients who have responded well to treatment.

Also read: Beyond the Lump: Overlooked Breast Cancer Symptoms That Can Delay Diagnosis

Feeling Better Is Not A Reason To Skip Follow-Ups

One concern raised by the experts was that some patients stop taking prescribed oral hormone therapy or miss appointments after their symptoms improve.

“Your first attempt at treatment is always your best attempt,” Dr. Walia said, underlining the importance of appropriate diagnosis and treatment from the outset.

Follow-up care helps doctors monitor a patient's recovery, assess treatment-related effects and make decisions based on individual clinical circumstances. The appropriate schedule and any further treatment depend on the patient's diagnosis, risk profile and medical history.

Experts also cautioned against allowing the possibility of recurrence to dominate a survivor's life. Understanding individual risk should help patients make informed decisions, rather than leave them in constant fear that cancer will return.

Post-Treatment Care Needs More Than Medical Monitoring

The long-term effects of breast cancer also have implications beyond the individual patient. Vaishali Iyer, Country Head of Communications, Patient Advocacy and CSR at Novartis in India, highlighted an estimated 140 million productive hours lost due to breast cancer care, drawing attention to its wider economic impact.

Dr. Wadhwa emphasised the need to address treatment-related concerns, including menopausal symptoms and bone health, which may require attention even after primary cancer treatment has ended.

Dr. Pankaj Goyal, Senior Consultant and Unit Head of Medical Oncology at RGCI, stressed that doctors must build trust with patients and explain recurrence risks without causing unnecessary alarm. Discussions about care should also account for patients' personal circumstances and financial constraints.

The panel discussion, titled “Take Charge Together: Shaping a Future of Greater Breast Cancer Awareness and Better Outcomes,” took place at the Times Network India Health Summit and Awards 2026.

Padma Bhushan Dr Shiv Kumar Sarin, leading hepatologist, gastroenterologist, and medical educator who also serves as the Senior Professor, Chancellor, and Director of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), recently spoke about the dos and don’ts to maintain a healthy liver at the Times Health Summit 2026.

Held under the theme “The Blueprint for a Future-Ready Healthcare Ecosystem – Innovation. Access. Self-Reliance,” the summit brought together healthcare professionals and industry stakeholders to discuss innovation, access to treatment and policy approaches shaping India's healthcare sector.

Should You Drink Hot Water In The Morning For Bowel Movement?

The doctor addressed the daily morning ritual of drinking hot water in the morning, which a lot of people follow to release bowels.

Dr Sarin said, “Don't use hot water or anything for that matter to make you go to the toilet because it is the connection between the brain and the bowel that is very important.

He also spoke about opting for other drinks like coconut water or lemon water with honey. He said that lemon can help improve iron absorption in your body.

He added, “As per coconut water is concerned, it has potassium which is very good for your bowel health but it should still not be an everyday thing. For nimbu and honey, you should remember that honey has fructose. So if you are consuming honey, you also need to churn that out."

Also read: Fatty Liver Disease: Scientists Identify 5 Subtypes With Different Health Risks

Ideal Time for Breakfast

Many of us do not know what is the right time for breakfast. It is especially important as eating after fasting for eight to ten hours affects your energy and metabolic health throughout the day.

Dr Sarin said, "It's after sunrise. Minimum 12 hours after the last food that you have eaten. Ussay pehle galti nahi kariyega khaanay ki. Let the stomach, and the bacteria and the intestine recover."

He also spoke about whether you should have fruits for breakfast. "Breakfast should be fruits. And, low calories fruits. Avoid carbs."

Also read: The Changing Obesity Treatment Landscape: Where Does Bariatric Surgery Fit in the Age of Weight-Loss Drugs?

How Coffee Affects The Liver

There is a lot of information as well as misinformation about coffee consumption and liver health. Dr S K Sarin spoke in its favour and said that it could prevent a lot of liver conditions.

He said, "It does many things. it clears several toxic things including fat, clears the flow of bile, good enzyme inducer, prevents fibrosis of the liver and can decrease cirrhosis and also the development of liver cancer."

He also warned ignoring healthy dietary habits and simply relying on coffee is also not ideal. He added, "Coffee is not medicine, it is something which can help you prevent and not treat."

Is Your Lunch Completely Healthy?

Dr Sarin also warned against eating more amount carbohydrates than the recommended limit. He explained how sitting next to an obese person can make you feel physically lethargic as their breath may emit endogenous alcohol.

When you eat a carbohydrate-heavy meal, your digestive system breaks down carbohydrates into sugars. Certain microorganisms in the gut, including yeasts and some bacteria, can ferment these sugars and produce small amounts of ethanol, or alcohol. This is known as endogenous alcohol production.

Dr Sarin recommends eating low-carb meals for lunch like sprouts, vegetables, yoghurt, buttermilk or low-sugar fruits.

Late-Night Eating Is A Red Flag

Dr Sarin recommends having dinner before sunset. He also said that having late-night dinners could disrupt your sleep.

He added, "Obesity during youth increases the risk of heart disease later in life. After the age of 40, eating one meal a day may have health implications. The total daily calorie intake should not exceed 300–400. Avoid eating late at night. Eating late can also affect your insulin resistance."

Yearly Screening To Keep Liver Health In Check

Dr Sarin also said that thin people can also have unhealthy fat that may cause fatty liver. He recommended yearly screens to keep liver health in check.

He said, "Even thin people can have excess body fat and low muscle mass, which may affect their health. Being thin does not necessarily mean being healthy. Maintaining good muscle mass is important."

In a significant step toward advancing xenotransplantation—the transplantation of organs or tissues from animals into humans—in India, a dedicated department has been established, with research and regulatory work underway. The country’s first animal-to-human organ transplant could follow, subject to government approval and the establishment of legal and ethical guidelines.

The initiative aims to help bridge the organ shortage in the country, Dr. Shikhar Tripathi, Director of the Department of Xenotransplantation Sciences at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, helming the project, told HealthandMe.

Dr. Tripathi, who has trained with Dr. David K. C. Cooper, a British surgeon-scientist and pioneer of modern xenotransplantation, believes India could perform its first xenotransplant within six months of receiving government permission.

The push comes as xenotransplantation continues to make progress internationally. In 2025, a patient received a genetically engineered pig kidney and lived without dialysis for 271 days before subsequently receiving a human kidney transplant.

India recorded 20,138 organ transplants in 2025, ranking third globally. However, the gap between the demand for and supply of organs remains significant, with deceased-donor donations accounting for a small share of transplants.

Dr. Tripathi estimates India’s annual organ shortage at around 90,000. According to data reported by hospitals and transplant centers on the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) National Registry Portal, the waiting list for major organs stood at 89,839 as of March 3, 2026.

Kidneys accounted for the largest share of patients on the waiting list, followed by livers, hearts, lungs and pancreases.

In an interview with HealthandMe, Dr. Tripathi, who is also working with Dr. Cooper at the Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute in Pittsburgh, US, discussed the scientific barriers, infection risks, regulatory requirements and potential of xenotransplantation in India.

Also read: Pig Kidney Works In Human Body For 271 Days: Why Xenotransplants Could Bridge The Organ Transplant Gap

Q. A pig kidney functioned for 271 days without dialysis in a human. What does this milestone mean for xenotransplantation?

Dr. Shikhar Tripathi: Xenotransplantation has achieved significant milestones, but researchers are still working toward long-term viability. For now, it could serve as a bridge for patients who need an organ while researchers work to address complications and improve graft survival.

“Xenotransplantation has achieved some really significant milestones in the last year or so.”

Q. What are the main barriers to long-term survival of a transplanted animal organ?

Dr. Tripathi: Genetic engineering has helped researchers modify the pig genome to reduce the risk of early rejection. The challenge now is managing late complications, particularly in kidney xenotransplantation.

Two major concerns are proteinuria, or leakage of proteins through the kidney, and thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), which involves injury to microscopic blood vessels.

“The current barrier we face is late complications of xenotransplantation.”

He added that his group has published research identifying potential pathways involved in proteinuria and TMA and is investigating ways to address these complications.

Read More: World Organ Donation Day 2026: Too Old Or Too Sick To Donate Organs? Doctors Bust Key Myths

Q. What are the infection risks associated with xenotransplantation, and why is lifelong monitoring important?

Dr. Tripathi: One concern is zoonosis, or the transmission of infection from an animal or animal organ to a human. Genetic modifications are intended to address this risk.

“There have been as many as 69 gene edits that have been done by eGenesis,” he said, referring to the company developing genetically engineered organs for transplantation.

Dr. Tripathi believes the risk of zoonotic infection is minimal, but this does not eliminate the risk of infection. Patients also face infections associated with immunosuppression, which is used to prevent their immune systems from rejecting a transplanted organ.

Dr. Tripathi’s group is also working toward accommodation and tolerance, which could allow transplanted organs to function with less immunosuppression.

He said lifelong monitoring of recipients will be needed to track outcomes and ensure continued medical care.

Q. India continues to face a significant organ shortage. How could xenotransplantation help bridge the gap between demand and supply?

Dr. Tripathi: India’s annual organ shortage is around 90,000, and it is increasing. The challenge is not just finding donors but ensuring they are medically fit and compatible with recipients.

He recalled a case in which an 85-year-old father-in-law was willing to donate a kidney to his daughter-in-law, but his age made him unsuitable, and no other family member was a match.

“The question is not whether you have a donor available. It’s also whether your donor is healthy or not,” he said.

He also raised ethical concerns about dependence on deceased-donor organs, arguing that patients should have alternatives that do not depend on another person’s death.

“I think xenotransplantation is not just going to solve a medical problem. It’s going to solve a moral problem,” he said.

READ: India Records 20,138 Organ Transplants In 2025; Deceased Donor Transplants Reach 3,526

Q. What is Sir Ganga Ram Hospital doing to advance xenotransplantation in India?

Dr. Tripathi: The aim is to carry out the first procedure with scientific support and within the necessary legal and ethical framework.

The team is prepared to move forward once the required guidelines are established and government permission is granted.

Q. How soon could India perform its first xenotransplant, and which type of transplant might reach clinical practice first?

Dr. Tripathi: I believe pancreatic islet-cell xenotransplantation could reach clinical practice before whole-organ transplantation.

Islet cells in the pancreas produce insulin, making them a potential area of research for conditions such as type 1 diabetes.

“It’s my scientific belief that islet-cell xenotransplantation would be the first one to hit the clinics,” he said.

As for India’s first xenotransplant, the timeline depends on government approval. “Potentially, six months from the day of the permission, we can perform the first transplant,” he said.

Q. What scientific, regulatory and biosecurity hurdles must India overcome before its first xenotransplant, and what lessons does the 1997 pig-organ transplant case involving Dr. Dhaniram Baruah in Assam offer today?

Dr. Tripathi: India’s first xenotransplant will have scientific, legal and ethical backing, along with patient consent. He said there was no comparison with the 1997 case involving Dr. Dhaniram Baruah in Assam, in which the patient died seven days after the procedure following multiple infections.

“We will not take a single step out of the legal ambit or the ethical ambit,” he said.

Q. Looking ahead five years, could India become a global leader in xenotransplantation?

Dr. Tripathi: India could play a leading international role. “India will be one of the leaders,” he said.

India can also establish its own xenorgan facilities over the next five to eight years. Until then, transporting organs from overseas companies could be an option, provided a secure transportation system is established in coordination with government authorities.