(NewsNation) — A new study has found evidence linking the use of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy to lower death rates in colon cancer patients.
The University of California, San Diego study examined data from more than 6,800 colon cancer patients. It took into account patients’ ages, Body Mass Index scores, cancer severity and other health conditions. It found that the five-year mortality rate was significantly lower among patients who were using GLP-1 receptor agonists, 15.5% vs 37.1%.
According to the study, the survival benefit appeared most pronounced in patients with BMI scores over 35. The university notes that the results suggest that GLP-1s may help “counteract inflammatory and metabolic conditions that worsen colon cancer prognosis.” In addition, experimental studies have indicated that GLP-1 drugs may directly slow the growth of tumor cells, according to Science Daily.
Researchers behind the study say the findings are observational but highlight the need for clinical trials to determine if GLP-1s can improve cancer survival rates. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, there will be about 107,320 new cases of colon cancer.