Breaking the silence: Addressing obesity to prevent cancer in future generations

This session at the World Cancer Leaders Summit in November 2025 will tackle the pressing issue of obesity as a significant risk factor for cancer.

Richard Vines, founder of Rare Cancers Australia, will highlight the urgent necessity of integrating obesity prevention into cancer prevention strategies. His discussion will emphasize that addressing obesity not only reduces current health risks but also plays a vital role in preventing the future onset of obesity-related cancers, including gastric, ovarian, thyroid, and liver cancers. He will also address the sensitivities surrounding advocacy related to the association between obesity and cancer prevalence. The talk will encourage reflection and discussion on how to navigate this area, which is often fraught with stigma and misconceptions, in order to raise awareness without placing undue blame on individuals.

Sara Johansson, Director of Advocacy in the Swedish Cancer Society, will highlight the Nordic Cancer Union's initiative to significantly reduce childhood and adolescent obesity rates, emphasizing collaboration among Nordic Cancer societies. This session aims to raise awareness and inspire actionable strategies for effective advocacy and systemic change, reinforcing the need to address obesity as a vital element in the fight against cancer.