A breast cancer diagnosis at age 58 prompted Miranda Levy to examine her health history, particularly her weight, and its potential connection to the disease.
Levy’s cancer was detected early during a routine mammogram and was described as low-grade, hormone-positive, and contained, with no spread to lymph nodes. She underwent a lumpectomy and was awaiting radiotherapy, with a positive prognosis.
Prior to her diagnosis, Levy had a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28.7, placing her in the overweight category. She had also been using the weight-loss drug Mounjaro. Experts note that being overweight, especially in post-menopausal women, increases breast cancer risk. Fat cells can contribute to chronic inflammation, promote tumor growth, and lead to insulin resistance and hormonal changes, including increased estrogen production.
Levy’s weight gain occurred over the past decade. In 2010, during a period of personal turmoil following her husband’s request for a divorce, she experienced insomnia, anxiety, and depression. She was prescribed various psychiatric medications, including antidepressants, tranquilizers, and an antipsychotic. These medications, she states, led to significant weight gain and carb cravings, contributing to a BMI that reached nearly 38, categorizing her as seriously obese.
"The pills made me crave carbohydrates: I remember once ripping open a packet of Scottish shortbread biscuits, devouring four, going halfway up the stairs, then saying: oh, what the hell, and going back down again to finish the pack," Levy recounted. She noted that 18% of people experience significant weight gain on SSRI antidepressants, though she personally could not tolerate them.
Levy began to address her health in 2019, gradually reducing her psychiatric medications and reintroducing exercise. She worked with a personal trainer and began cooking with fresh ingredients. During this period, she also finalized her divorce and began a new relationship.
Despite her efforts, Levy hit a plateau at 12 stone 3lb (approximately 171 lbs). In late 2024, she began using Mounjaro for weight loss, experiencing initial adverse effects but eventually losing a stone by the end of May. Her breast cancer diagnosis followed in mid-June.
Cancer UK states that obesity is linked to 13 types of cancer, with a direct correlation between risk and the duration of being overweight. One study suggested that sustained weight loss in women over 50 is associated with a lower breast cancer risk.
Consultants emphasize that while factors like genetics and aging are unchangeable risks for cancer, managing modifiable risks such as weight can reduce overall risk and the risk of recurrence. Other factors that can increase breast cancer risk include having children later in life and alcohol consumption.
Levy continues to manage her weight through exercise, healthy eating, and Mounjaro, currently weighing around 10 stone 7lb (approximately 147 lbs) and wearing a size 12 to 14. She expressed confidence in her recovery and future, stating she will not return to psychiatric drugs, which she believes created more problems than they solved. She hopes that by maintaining her weight loss, she can also prevent her cancer from returning.
For support or information on breast cancer, contact Breast Cancer Now's expert nurses via their helpline at 0808 800 6000 or visit breastcancernow.org.