Potential Anti-Cancer Benefits of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Beyond Weight Loss

New research indicates that GLP-1 receptor agonists, used for diabetes and weight loss, may also provide significant protection against obesity-related cancers beyond their metabolic effects. The study compares these medications to bariatric surgery, revealing potential anti-cancer benefits that merit further investigation.

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Recent research presented at the European Congress on Obesity and published in eClinicalMedicine suggests that first-generation GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), commonly used for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, may offer protective effects against obesity-related cancers beyond their role in weight loss. Studies comparing GLP-1 RAs such as liraglutide and exenatide with bariatric surgery have shown that these medications can reduce the risk of cancers associated with obesity, including postmenopausal breast, colorectal, uterine, and other cancers.

In an extensive observational study involving over 6,300 patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes from Israel, researchers followed individuals treated either with GLP-1 RAs or bariatric surgery for an average of 7.5 years. Results indicated that the incidence of obesity-related cancers was similar between the two groups, despite bariatric surgery's superior weight reduction. Notably, after adjusting for weight loss differences, GLP-1 RAs demonstrated a 41% greater effectiveness in reducing cancer risk compared to surgery, hinting at mechanisms beyond weight control.

Dr. Yael Wolff Sagy explained that their findings point to potential anti-cancer properties of GLP-1 RAs, possibly related to reducing inflammation and other metabolic pathways. Although the precise actions of these medications remain to be fully understood, this research underscores their promising role in cancer prevention.

While first-generation GLP-1 RAs are well established for their weight-loss and metabolic benefits, ongoing studies are exploring whether newer, more potent formulations might further enhance cancer protective effects. However, further randomized clinical trials are necessary to confirm these findings and uncover the underlying mechanisms.

This study highlights the potential for GLP-1 receptor agonists to serve as a valuable tool in reducing obesity-related cancer risks, adding to their established benefits for diabetes and weight management.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-glp-receptor-agonists-anti-cancer.html