Weight Loss Drugs Like Ozempic, Zepbound May Reduce Cancer Risks, Studies Suggest

GLP-1 agonists, drugs like Novo Nordisk A/S’s NVO Ozempic, Wegovy, and Eli Lilly And Co’s LLY Zepbound, have revolutionized the treatment of obesity and diabetes.

Now, researchers are investigating their potential to address a range of other conditions, including addiction, sleep apnea, and even cancer.

These medications are showing early promise in preventing several common cancers linked to obesity, such as breast, colon, liver, and ovarian cancers, by acting on the brain to regulate hormones, slow digestion, and reduce hunger.

Also Read: Using Weight Loss Medications Such As Wegovy, Zepbound? Psychologist Warns Of Linked Eating Disorder Risks.

While research on GLP-1 drugs is still in its early stages, studies indicate their potential to reduce cancer risks, NPR report notes.

For example, a study published in JAMA Oncology last year suggests that these drugs might lower the risk of colon cancer, even among non-obese individuals.

Another analysis in JAMA Network Open found that GLP-1s offer greater cancer protection for diabetic patients than insulin treatments.

The American Society of Clinical Oncologists (ASCO) also presented a study showing that GLP-1 drugs reduced the risk of 13 obesity-related cancers by 39% over ten years, compared to a 22% reduction from bariatric surgery, the report added.

Dr. Arif Kamal, an oncologist and chief patient officer at the American Cancer Society, highlights the complex relationship between obesity and cancer, particularly in organs involved in digestion, metabolism, and reproductive systems, underscores the potential impact of GLP-1 drugs.

Kamal explains that estrogen, a hormone increased by fat cells, drives the growth of many cancers, making women increasingly susceptible to these conditions.

He also emphasizes that obesity is likely the leading factor behind rising cancer rates among younger adults, akin to the role tobacco played in previous generations.

A resident physician at Case Western Reserve adds that the protective effects of GLP-1 drugs are likely due to a combination of weight loss, better glycemic control, and anti-inflammatory effects.

However, more research is necessary, particularly on newer weight-loss formulations of GLP-1 medications.

Another resident physician and co-author of the ASCO study shares optimism about the data, noting that these noninvasive treatments could appeal to a broader patient population than bariatric surgery.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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