The drug metformin, which is traditionally part of the treatment of type 2 diabetes, could helpPrevention of breast cancerhelp. Women with type 2 diabetes who take the drug metformin for 10 years or longer are 38% less likely to develop breast cancer. At least that's what a new study from the US National Institute of Environmental Health suggests. Research team leader Dale Sandler explained why this is the case.
Type 2 diabetes: Why the drug metformin reduces the risk of breast cancer
The drug metformin inhibits the production of glucose (blood sugar) in the liver. But why it reduces the risk of breast cancer remains unclear. However, the scientists suspect that the hormone insulin can activate the cancer cells. The drug metformin inhibits insulin production and at the same time activates the enzyme AMPK. This enzyme can inhibit the spread of cancer cells in the body. Another theory is that metformin can control estrogen. And the hormone estrogen is thought to play an important role in the spread of breast cancer to other organs, muscles and tissues. Metformin also helps to lose weight. Obesity is considered a risk factor for breast cancer, so reduced weight can also reduce the risk of breast cancer.
In order to better research the effects of metformin, the scientists observed a total of 44,000 women between the ages of 35 and 74 over a period of eight years. The subjects had to fill out questionnaires every three years.
Metformin is a medication that is not only prescribed for diabetes but has many other uses. The study results are promising. However, the scientists point out that they need to further research the effects of metformin to determine the exact connections and possible side effects.
They recommend that patients with type 2 diabetes undergo regular breast cancer screening. Daily exercise and weight loss can also help prevent cancer. Patients with type 2 diabetes should not take metformin to prevent cancer. The doctor can offer alternatives.
