GLP-1-based medications mimic the natural glucose hormone GLP-1, which works by decreasing appetite and promoting feelings of fullness
A new study from Israel suggests that weight-loss injections, specifically GLP-1-based medicines, could help lower the risk of obesity-related cancers. The research, presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Malaga, Spain, followed 6,356 people over an average of 7.5 years, with half of the participants having undergone bariatric surgery and the other half using weight-loss injections.
Out of the total participants, 298 were diagnosed with obesity-related cancers during the follow-up period. The study found that those who used weight-loss jabs, such as tirzepatide, showed promising results in reducing their risk of these types of cancers. GLP-1-based medications mimic the natural glucose hormone GLP-1, which works by decreasing appetite and promoting feelings of fullness.
Dr. Dror Dicker, a co-lead author of the study and professor at Rabin Medical Center in Israel, emphasized that newer, more potent GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs), such as Wegovy, could offer even greater benefits in reducing the risk of obesity-related cancers due to their higher efficacy in weight reduction.
“New generation, highly potent GLP1-RAs with higher efficacy in weight reduction may convey an even greater advantage in reducing the risk of obesity-related cancers,” Dr. Dicker stated.
The findings provide further evidence of the potential of GLP-1-based medications not only in aiding weight loss but also in mitigating the long-term health risks associated with obesity. Obesity has been linked to a range of chronic health conditions, including several types of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
The study also highlighted the benefits of bariatric surgery, which modifies the digestive system to limit food intake and promote weight loss, in reducing the incidence of obesity-related cancers. However, the research suggests that the use of weight-loss injections could offer a less invasive alternative with significant health benefits.
These results are important for addressing the global obesity epidemic, as they open up new possibilities for reducing cancer risks among individuals struggling with obesity. Future studies may further explore the long-term effects of GLP-1-based treatments on cancer prevention and overall health outcomes.
The study was published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, adding to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of GLP-1-based therapies for weight management and metabolic health.
