More good GLP-1 news
We're learning more and more about the far-reaching benefits of the new weight loss GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound. For example, a study in JAMA Oncology shows that folks taking these medications have a 17% lower risk of developing 12 of 13 obesity-related cancers, plus lung cancer, than folks who don't take them. The only cancer GLP-1s didn't help stave off was kidney cancer. (Researchers aren't sure why.)
Weight loss and a related reduction in inflammation may be the reason for a reduced cancer risk. A meta-analysis of 32 studies that looked at the benefits of bariatric surgery for weight loss found that folks getting that procedure saw a 38% reduction in risk of any type of cancer and a 41% reduction in their risk for obesity-related cancers.
Bariatric surgery's greater benefit may be because the study tracked participants for more years, so they lost more weight and kept it off longer than the folks taking GLP-1s for shorter time periods. But whatever the mechanism, it's clear that finding the optimal way to achieve a healthy weight should be a top priority.
So, if you're struggling to manage your weight -- or want to take advantage of their other health benefits -- talk to your doctor about whether taking a GLP-1 is smart for you
For more info on the many health benefits of GLP-1s, check out my blog at MichaelFRoizenMD.substack.com. And to explore how smart lifestyle choices can reshape your future, take the ActualAge quiz available at 4YOUngevity.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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