In obese women, there is an increased production of the enzymes, aromatase and hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. These enzymes cause an increased conversion of male androgen hormones into estrogen hormones. When the estrogens bind to certain tissues, such as breast epithelium and the endometrium of the uterus, they can promote cellular proliferation and inhibit apoptosis. However, this effect may only be important in women whose estrogen levels are normally low, such as after menopause.
References
1. Calle, E and Kaaks, R. Overweight, Obesity and Cancer: Epidemiological Evidence and Proposed Mechanisms. Nature Reviews Cancer, Vol. 4, No. 8, pp. 579-591 (August 2004)
2. Calle, E. et. al. Overweight, Obesity, and Mortality from Cancer in a Prospectively Studied Cohort of U.S. Adults. New England J MedicineVol. 348, No. 17, pp. 1625-1638 (April 24, 2003)
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