New research suggests that weight loss drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists could reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers by 41% compared to bariatric surgery.
These drugs, including medications like Saxenda and Trulicity, help people lose weight by mimicking a hormone that makes them feel full longer.
The study, published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, followed nearly 6,400 people with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Researchers compared those who had weight loss surgery to those who took GLP-1 drugs.
Despite surgery causing more weight loss, both groups had similar rates of obesity-related cancers, such as breast, colorectal, and uterine cancers.
After adjusting for the amount of weight lost, the drugs showed a stronger direct effect in lowering cancer risk. Scientists believe this may be due to the drugs’ ability to reduce inflammation, a factor linked to cancer development.
However, when researchers accounted for blood sugar control, the advantage of the drugs over surgery dropped to 13%. The study also noted limitations, such as the relatively small number of cancer cases and the need for longer follow-up to confirm lasting benefits.
Experts say larger, randomized trials are needed to fully understand how these drugs protect against cancer. Still, the findings add to growing evidence that weight loss medications may offer important health benefits beyond helping people slim down.
Dr. Yael Wolff Sagy, one of the study’s authors, said, “Weight loss alone cannot completely explain the many benefits these medications provide, including their anti-cancer effects.” Newer drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro might offer even greater protection, but more research is needed.
This study highlights the potential of weight loss drugs not only to fight obesity but also to reduce the risk of serious diseases like cancer.
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