Weight-loss injections can cut the risk of obesity-related cancers by almost half, according to a new study, The Guardian reports.
The study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists (such as Saxenda, Byetta, and Trulicity) help with weight loss and have an additional protective effect by reducing inflammation, which is linked to cancer.
Obesity is linked to 13 different types of cancer. Although bariatric surgery leads to more weight loss, the results in reducing cancer risk were similar to the drug approach.
In an Israeli study, scientists studied 6,000 adults who had not previously had cancer. They either underwent bariatric surgery or took weight-loss drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as liraglutide (Saxenda), exenatide (Byetta), or dulaglutide (Trulicity). The drugs work by mimicking the body’s hormone GLP-1, which lowers blood sugar levels and makes you feel fuller for longer.
The researchers noted that bariatric surgery reduced cancer risk by 30-42%. Given that surgery results in more significant weight loss, the authors concluded that weight-loss drugs are relatively more effective at preventing obesity-related cancers.
The researchers believe newer drugs, such as Mounjaro, are more effective at reducing weight and may have a more significant impact.
Scientists and doctors say this could usher in a new era of cancer prevention through large-scale trials and community-based interventions.
