Weight loss drugs — in particular, Ozempic — based on GLP-1 receptor agonists significantly reduce mortality among patients with colorectal cancer. This conclusion was reached by scientists at the University of California, San Diego. The study findings were published in the medical journal Cancer Investigation.

The study authors analyzed the medical histories of more than 6,800 participants, with special attention to the history of patients treated for colorectal cancer. Also, the scientists monitored which medications the participants were taking alongside standard cancer treatment.

Over the course of five years, the mortality rate among those taking GLP-1 drugs was 15.5%, compared to 37.1% in the control group. Even after accounting for age, body mass index, and disease severity, the effect remained, indicating an independent protective effect of these drugs.

The most significant results were observed among patients suffering from obesity. According to the researchers, these drugs may compensate for inflammatory and metabolic disturbances that worsen the prognosis for cancer patients.

The scientists assume that GLP-1 agonists not only regulate blood sugar levels and body weight, but also reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and possibly directly inhibit the growth of tumor cells.

At the same time, they emphasize the need for further clinical trials to confirm the potential use of these agents in cancer therapy.