82 A global systematic review and meta-analysis have identified a strong link between body mass index (BMI) and breast cancer risk in women, especially among those who are postmenopausal. The research, encompassing data from 46 studies conducted worldwide, provides compelling evidence that obesity not only raises the likelihood of developing breast cancer but also complicates treatment, particularly for hormone receptor-positive (HR+) cancers. The findings were published in the journal Medicine. Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, accounting for high rates of mortality and incidence across many countries. As a result, identifying modifiable risk factors like BMI has taken on growing importance. With obesity defined by a BMI of over 30, the study reveals that excessive weight correlates with higher cancer risk. This association is especially evident in postmenopausal women, where 50% of the reviewed studies indicated a clear connection between elevated BMI and heightened breast cancer likelihood. Although BMI impacts various types of breast cancer differently, it appears to most significantly affect hormone receptor-positive cancers. These cancers are more prevalent in women with elevated BMI, leading to a poorer prognosis as the disease is often more advanced at the time of diagnosis. Obese patients are more likely to face complex treatment plans involving both surgery and radiation, with obesity shown to hinder treatment success. Additionally, BMI’s role in breast cancer risk may be linked to the systemic inflammation associated with obesity. Adipose tissue, especially in obese individuals, is known to elevate cytokine levels such as interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor. These inflammatory markers may play a role in cancer growth, yet the exact biological pathways remain under investigation. Researchers call for continued studies to further elucidate the biological mechanisms between obesity and cancer risk and to investigate whether weight loss interventions can reduce the risk of breast cancer. This updated analysis underscores the role of weight management in reducing cancer risk, especially among women with a family history of breast cancer. With obesity on the rise globally, the findings stress the need for public health strategies that promote healthy body weight as a preventive measure against breast cancer.