A new study published in eClinicalMedicine reveals that first-generation glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s) may offer powerful protection against certain types of cancer linked to obesity. Researchers found a similar incidence of obesity-related cancer among patients treated with GLP-1s and those who underwent bariatric surgery, but accounting for the advantage of surgery in weight loss, the study showed that GLP-1s had a direct effect on reducing obesity-related cancer by 41%.
GLP-1 receptor agonists are commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes and support weight loss. These medications work by mimicking a natural hormone in the body that helps lower blood sugar and keeps people feeling fuller for longer. Obesity and diabetes are linked with an increased risk of many types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer.
The study analyzed electronic health record data from 6,356 participants who were treated with GLP-1s or underwent bariatric surgery between 2010 and 2018. The results showed that obesity-related cancer occurred in 5.76 cases per 1,000 person-years among surgery patients and 5.64 cases per 1,000 person-years among those taking GLP-1s.
When the analysis was adjusted for weight loss, the study found that GLP-1s had a direct effect on reducing obesity-related cancer beyond weight-loss, with a 41% lower relative risk compared to bariatric surgery. The researchers suggest that this protection may arise from multiple mechanisms, including reducing inflammation.
While the findings are promising, the authors note that this is an observational study and future randomized trials and larger prospective studies are needed to confirm the effects and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/scientists-discover-powerful-anti-cancer-benefits-of-popular-weight-loss-drugs