Cancer and obesity: the role of adipokines in their interaction

Obesity is a well-established risk factor for various chronic diseases, like type 2 diabetes, liver disease, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and different types of cancer, including breast cancer, particularly in women. This association is primarily attributed to the endocrine role of white adipose tissue, which secretes adipokines-pro- and anti-adipogenic. The pro-adipogenic ones can act by mediating the link between obesity and breast cancer, as their altered concentrations influence the initiation and progression of breast cancer. Given that diet is a modifiable environmental risk factor, it plays a crucial role in this context. A healthy, balanced diet can positively impact adipokine levels. Furthermore, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and legumes provides ample antioxidants, which inhibit cancer development by counteracting growth factors and oxidative stress. This narrative review aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between obesity and adipokines in the context of breast cancer.