Israeli Study Finds Weight-Loss Drugs Halve Obesity-Related Cancer Risk

New research from Israel indicates that GLP-1 receptor agonists, commonly known as weight-loss drugs, may reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers by 41% more effectively than bariatric surgery, despite surgery resulting in greater weight loss. The study, published in eClinicalMedicine, analyzed thousands of people with obesity and diabetes, finding that the drugs' benefits likely extend beyond weight loss, possibly due to their inflammation-reducing properties. Researchers compared drugs like liraglutide, exenatide, and dulaglutide, though newer medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide were not included but may have even greater effects. Experts suggest these drugs could become a preventive measure for cancer in high-risk patients, similar to how statins are used for heart disease. While the findings are promising, researchers caution that further studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms and confirm the protective effects. The potential of these medications represents a significant breakthrough in cancer prevention, especially given the global rise in obesity rates.