Obesity-related cancer risk: GLP-1 receptor agonists vs. bariatric surgery

First-generation glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists could be effective at reducing the risk of obesity-related cancers.

In an observational, retrospective cohort study published in eClinicalMedicine, investigators examined the outcomes of more than 6,000 patients with obesity and diabetes who either received GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide, exenatide and dulaglutide or underwent bariatric metabolic surgery like sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass and laparoscopic banding between 2010 and 2018.

After assessing potential mediation through weight loss, the investigators noted a significant reduction in the risk of obesity-related cancers through use of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Because the drugs have been associated with anti-inflammatory processes, the investigators proposed that GLP-1 receptor agonists could help modulate the immune system.

Although the decrease in obesity-related cancers with GLP-1 receptor agonists was comparable to bariatric metabolic surgery, the investigators emphasized the need for larger trials to better understand the mechanisms contributing to the reduction in cancer risk.

Read more: eClinicalMedicine

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