GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are widely popular for managing type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss. But recent studies show that it may have even broader benefits beyond these conditions. For instance, they hold significant potential in halving cancer risk and improving cardiovascular health, particularly in bariatric surgery patients.
Cutting Cancer Risk
A major Israeli study, presented at the European Congress on Obesity, examined the cancer-fighting potential of GLP-1 RAs. Specifically, the study compared patients using GLP-1 RAs with those who had undergone bariatric surgery. Surprisingly, the drugs cut obesity-related cancer risk by 41%, even after adjusting for weight differences.
“These findings provide important initial clinical insights,” said co-lead author Professor Orna Reges, from Ariel University and Clalit Health Services in Israel.
“In real-life settings, people living with obesity and type 2 diabetes are at increased risks of cardiovascular disease, and these results suggest that initiating GLP-1RAs after bariatric surgery may help to achieve sustained reductions in weight and blood glucose levels-comparable to those achieved by bariatric surgery alone in other patients-and may also reduce the long-term risk for MACE.”
Notably, the benefits weren’t limited to weight loss. Researchers believe GLP-1 RAs also reduce inflammation and regulate hormones linked to tumor growth. Consequently, these drugs may directly impact cancer pathways.
The cancers with reduced incidence include postmenopausal breast, colorectal, and endometrial cancers. Correspondingly, these findings suggest a promising new role for GLP-1 RAs in cancer prevention.
Heart Health After Bariatric Surgery
Another study focused on patients who had already undergone bariatric surgery. It found those who also received GLP-1 RAs had better cardiovascular outcomes. In fact, these patients saw a 67% drop in major adverse heart events and overall death rates.
This combination—surgery plus GLP-1 therapy—offers a powerful dual approach. In particular, it helps patients who don’t achieve full metabolic control after surgery. Moreover, the findings could reshape treatment strategies for high-risk obesity patients.
Cancer and Heart Disease Prevention
Clearly, GLP-1 RAs have benefits beyond diabetes control. They are emerging as vital tools in comprehensive obesity management. Hence, these drugs could soon be part of standard care for cancer and heart disease prevention in obese individuals.
However, more research is still necessary. While observational studies are encouraging, experts call for randomized controlled trials. Only then can experts fully understand and confirm the drugs’ long-term effects.
Still, the data so far are strong. They highlight how metabolic treatments can influence more than just weight. Certainly, GLP-1 RAs may protect against the most serious complications of obesity.
A New Era in Obesity Care?
GLP-1 RAs are no longer just diabetes drugs. Increasingly, they look like multipurpose medications that reduce cancer risk and strengthen heart health. In combination with bariatric surgery, their benefits grow stronger.
Therefore, healthcare providers should pay close attention. In time, GLP-1 RAs could soon become cornerstones in treating and preventing obesity-related diseases. As new trials unfold, their full potential will become clearer.
Without a doubt, this class of drugs is changing how we approach obesity—and its many dangerous consequences.
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash
