Penn study finds GLP-1 use associated with lower breast cancer risk; researchers to launch clinical trial

June 11, 2026 - 09:40

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania has found that women with obesity who take GLP-1 medications for weight loss may have a significantly lower risk of developing breast cancer. Researchers observed that women in the study who were prescribed these drugs were about 30% less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer compared to those who did not use them.

The findings, which come from analyzing medical records of thousands of patients, add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide and liraglutide, offer health benefits beyond blood sugar control and weight management. Obesity is a known risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women. The study suggests that the weight loss and metabolic changes triggered by these drugs may play a key role in reducing that risk.

Encouraged by the results, the Penn research team is now planning to launch a clinical trial to further investigate the connection. The trial will aim to determine whether the protective effect is due to weight loss alone or if the drugs have direct anti-cancer properties. If confirmed, these findings could lead to new prevention strategies for breast cancer in high-risk populations.