Obesity and Environmental Pollutants: Emerging Crosstalk in Cancer Risk and Metabolic Dysregulation

Obesity and environmental pollution are converging global health challenges that collectively drive the rising incidence of cancer and metabolic diseases. Adipose tissue, once regarded as a passive fat depot, is now recognized as a dynamic endocrine and immune organ, capable of storing lipophilic pollutants and modulating systemic homeostasis. Persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and particulate matter accumulate in adipose tissue where they exacerbate oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and hormonal disruption. These processes intersect with obesity-associated insulin resistance, dysregulated adipokine secretion, and immune dysfunction, creating a permissive microenvironment for carcinogenesis. This review synthesizes evidence on the molecular, cellular, and systemic mechanisms by which obesity and pollutants interact to elevate cancer risk. Special emphasis is placed on oxidative stress and immune dysregulation as shared pathways, the modulating role of antioxidants and lifestyle factors, and the need for integrated public health approaches. Understanding this crosstalk is essential for designing preventive strategies in rapidly industrializing societies disproportionately affected by both obesity and environmental pollution. Keywords: Obesity; Environmental pollutants; Cancer; Immunity; Oxidative stress