Sugar tax call as obesity linked to 5,000 cases of bowel cancer

Cancer Research UK says that obesity has been linked to 13 types of cancer, and that resistance to the effects of insulin, a hormone important in the breakdown of food, is one likely explanation
Cancer Research UK says that obesity has been linked to 13 types of cancer, and that resistance to the effects of insulin, a hormone important in the breakdown of food, is one likely explanation
JEFF J MITCHELL/GETTY IMAGES

Cancer experts are urging a cut in the sugar intake of Scots after research found that almost 5,000 bowel cancer cases over the past decade have been caused by obesity.

Cancer Research UK said that the findings were a “huge worry” and it called for action to promote healthier lifestyles, along with restrictions on offers for unhealthy foods.

Food Standards Scotland, the advisory body on nutrition, said that the Scottish government should reconsider taxing sugar and cutting back on supermarket promotions of unhealthy food and drink.

Cancer Research UK said there were about 3,800 cases of bowel cancer diagnosed in Scotland each year, and approximately 1,600 people died from the disease annually. It said that obesity was linked to 13 types of cancer, and that