A major scientific study has found that women using glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, commonly prescribed for obesity and type 2 diabetes, may have a significantly lower risk of developing breast cancer.
The study reported that women taking GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy were approximately 30 per cent less likely to develop breast cancer compared with women who were not using the drugs.
Researchers said the findings add to growing evidence that the popular medications may provide health benefits beyond weight loss and blood sugar management.
GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone that regulates appetite, insulin production and blood glucose levels.
The drugs have become increasingly popular worldwide because of their effectiveness in helping patients achieve substantial weight reduction.
According to the researchers, obesity is a recognised risk factor for several cancers, including breast cancer, and the weight-loss effects of GLP-1 therapies may contribute to lowering cancer risk.
Medical experts, however, cautioned that while the findings are encouraging, further research is needed to determine whether the reduced cancer risk is directly linked to the medications or primarily a result of weight loss and improved metabolic health.
The study comes amid a series of recent discoveries highlighting additional benefits associated with GLP-1 therapies.
In a separate clinical trial, a new oral GLP-1 medication demonstrated significant improvements in blood sugar control and weight reduction, raising hopes that highly effective diabetes treatment could soon be available in tablet form.
Researchers said the oral formulation could improve treatment accessibility and convenience for millions of patients who prefer pills over injections.
Another recent study found that semaglutide, the active ingredient used in several GLP-1 medications, may also help reduce the risk of bone fractures among people living with type 2 diabetes.
Health professionals described the emerging findings as potentially transformative, suggesting that GLP-1 therapies may play an increasingly important role in preventing and managing multiple chronic diseases associated with obesity.
They stressed that the medications should only be used under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals and warned against self-medication or misuse of prescription drugs.
Experts also called for continued investment in clinical research to better understand the long-term effects, benefits and potential risks of GLP-1 therapies.
As evidence continues to emerge, healthcare stakeholders believe the drugs could reshape the treatment landscape for obesity, diabetes and related health conditions in the years ahead.
