Medical breakthroughs in the form of drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound have transformed the landscape of obesity and diabetes treatment. Researchers are now investigating the potential of these medications in addressing a range of other conditions, such as addiction, sleep apnea, and cancer.
These medications, classified as GLP-1 agonists, are considered revolutionary for their ability to regulate brain hormones, slow down digestion, and curb appetite. Recent studies indicate that they may also have a role in preventing various types of cancer, including breast, colon, liver, and ovarian cancers, which are often associated with obesity and excess weight.
‘It’s a story filled with hope, something that people truly need,’ states Arif Kamal, an oncologist specializing in breast cancer and serving as the chief patient officer at the American Cancer Society.
Although research on GLP-1 drugs is still in its early phases, findings consistently highlight their potential in reducing the risk of cancer. For example, a research letter published in JAMA Oncology last year suggested that GLP-1 drugs could potentially lower the risk of colon cancer, even in individuals who are not overweight. Another analysis in JAMA Network Open revealed that GLP-1s provide significantly greater protection against cancer for diabetic patients compared to insulin treatments.
Moreover, a recent study presented at the June meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncologists revealed that both bariatric surgery and GLP-1 medications significantly decrease the risk of 13 obesity-related cancers. Over a 10-year period, those who underwent bariatric surgery saw their risk decrease by 22% compared to those who received no treatment, while individuals taking GLP-1 medications experienced an impressive 39% reduction in risk.
‘A 39% risk reduction is truly one of the most impactful figures we’ve ever observed,’ remarks Kamal.
The development of GLP-1 agonist drugs initially focused on diabetes treatment nearly 20 years ago. In the last decade, these drugs have also gained approval for weight loss treatments—first as liraglutide (Saxenda) and more recently as semaglutide and tirzepatide (Wegovy and Zepbound).
Regarding cancer prevention, the connection between obesity and cancer is intricate. Cancers associated with obesity are often located in organs related to digestion and metabolism, such as the liver and pancreas, as well as in estrogen-sensitive reproductive organs like the breast and uterus. Estrogen, responsible for cell growth during pregnancy, also promotes the growth of many cancers, particularly as fat cells increase estrogen production.
These factors increase women’s susceptibility to cancer. Historically, men were at higher risk of developing cancer due to behaviors like smoking or drinking. However, the widespread prevalence of obesity among both men and women is narrowing this gender gap. Obesity is likely the primary driver behind the escalating cancer rates among younger adults, akin to how tobacco impacted previous generations.
Kamal believes that unhealthy weight is a major health concern for our generation.
The potential for GLP-1 drugs to decrease cancer risk is an important finding. The ASCO study suggests that these drugs may have a positive impact on cancer risk, even without significant weight loss. This indicates that these medications may affect various bodily mechanisms that help decrease vulnerability to cancer.
Cindy Lin, a resident physician at Case Western Reserve and co-author of the ASCO study, explains that the protective effects of GLP-1s are likely due to multiple factors. Weight loss is one aspect, but other factors such as improved glycemic control and anti-inflammatory effects may also play a role.
Further research, particularly on the newer weight-loss versions of GLP-1 drugs, is necessary according to Benjamin Liu, another resident physician at Case Western and co-author of the ASCO study.
Despite the need for more research, Liu remains positive about the current data. He finds the noninvasive nature of GLP-1 medications appealing, especially in comparison to bariatric surgery, making it a more accessible option for a larger number of patients.
