Groundbreaking research suggests blockbuster weight loss and diabetes medications could offer a powerful new defence against one of the UK's most prevalent cancers. A pair of new studies indicates that drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer more effectively than a long-recommended aspirin regimen and significantly improve survival rates for those already diagnosed.
GLP-1s Show Superior Prevention and Safety
Presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's 2026 symposium, research from the University of Texas San Antonio provides compelling evidence that the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists extend far beyond managing diabetes and weight. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is becoming increasingly common, notably among younger adults, with diagnoses rising in people under 50 and even in their 20s, often at advanced stages.
The first study, analysing health records of over 280,000 people at risk for CRC, found that individuals taking a GLP-1 drug were 26 percent less likely to develop the cancer compared to those taking preventive aspirin. While the absolute risk for an average person remains low, the safety profile of GLP-1s appeared more favourable.
"GLP-1 receptor agonists may have benefits far beyond the waistline," said Dr Joel Saltzman of the Cleveland Clinic, reviewing the findings. The study noted lower rates of serious side effects like kidney damage and gastrointestinal bleeding with GLP-1s compared to aspirin, which carries known risks of bleeding complications.
A Major Survival Benefit for Cancer Patients
A second study sought to confirm early evidence that these drugs could slow mortality from colorectal cancer. Researchers examined anonymous medical records of more than 10,000 patients with CRC, comparing matched groups of 5,170 patients each.
The results were striking. Patients with colorectal cancer who were taking a GLP-1 drug had a 53 percent lower risk of dying from any cause over a subsequent 10-year period compared to those not on the medication. This substantial survival advantage was consistent across different patient types, regardless of age, weight, or diabetes status.
Dr Colton Jones, lead study author, highlighted the significance: "While aspirin has been studied for colorectal cancer prevention, its modest benefit and bleeding risks limit its use. GLP-1 receptor agonists... may offer a safer option for both metabolic control and cancer prevention."
Mechanisms and Future Implications
Experts point to several mechanisms that might explain these effects. Beyond lowering blood sugar, GLP-1 drugs reduce systemic inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote weight loss—all factors that can interfere with cancer growth and progression.
These findings build on prior research, including a University of California San Diego study last year which found CRC patients on GLP-1s were less than half as likely to die within five years. The survival benefit was most pronounced in obese patients.
It is crucial to note that these studies are observational, meaning more rigorous, controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm the causal links. Furthermore, while promising for improving survival, the research did not find that GLP-1 drugs reduced the risk of the cancer spreading to other organs.
As the use of GLP-1 medications continues to expand, with an estimated 12 percent of US adults having taken them, this research opens a new frontier in oncology. It suggests these widely prescribed drugs could play a dual role in both chronic disease management and cancer prevention, potentially changing clinical guidelines for at-risk populations in the future.
