Source : Perth Now news
A diabetes pill costing could dramatically cut the risk of oesophageal cancer.
Metformin – already widely prescribed to control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes – may slash an individual’s risk of one of the world’s deadliest cancers by more than a third, according to new research.
Experts analysing data from more than 13,000 patients found those taking the drug were significantly less likely to develop the disease. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, tracked patients across Nordic countries over nearly three decades.
Professor Shai–Hau Xie said: “From a clinical perspective, the observed association between metformin use and a significantly decreased risk of oesophageal cancer suggests a possible role for this drug in cancer prevention and treatment.”
Oesophageal cancer – which affects the food pipe – is notoriously difficult to detect early and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage.
It is strongly linked to obesity, smoking, alcohol and long-term acid reflux, with around 9,300 cases reported annually in the UK.
Researchers believe metformin may help by lowering insulin levels and blocking the growth of cancer cells.
The study found the drug could cut risk by 36 per cent, with even stronger effects seen in those taking higher doses over time.
Scientists say the findings open the door to using metformin as a preventative treatment, particularly for high-risk groups such as those with chronic heartburn or Barrett’s oesophagus.
However, they caution more research and clinical trials are needed before it can be routinely prescribed for cancer prevention.
