Metformin Benefits: Cases of cancer and diabetes are constantly increasing. However, a new discovery has emerged that diabetes medication may be helpful in preventing cancer. Let's explore the truth behind this.

Does Metformin Reduce Cancer Risk? Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Keeping blood sugar under control is crucial to preventing serious complications later in life. Metformin, a medication prescribed to patients with type 2 diabetes, has been shown to be effective in controlling blood sugar for years. Recent research has also shown that metformin may also have an effect on cancer, particularly in cases like colon, liver, and breast cancer. However, it would be inappropriate to mistake it for a cancer drug. Let us explain.

Research on diabetes medicine and cancer

According to research, metformin increases insulin sensitivity and reduces the production of sugar in the liver. This is why it has been the first-choice drug for type 2 diabetes. Beyond blood sugar control, scientists are now exploring its other biological effects. Lab studies and some observational research have suggested that metformin may be helpful in reducing cancer risk.

Diabetes and cancer connection

Patients with type 2 diabetes have been shown to have an increased risk of certain cancers, such as liver, pancreas, colon, and breast cancer. This is believed to be due to insulin resistance, inflammation, and obesity. When insulin levels are high in the body, it can promote abnormal cell growth. Metformin helps lower insulin levels, which may reduce this risk to some extent.

How does metformin affect cancer cells?

Some new research suggests that metformin may affect cancer cells in several ways. It may slow down pathways that promote cancer cell growth. It may also regulate cell metabolism and help reduce inflammation. All of these factors may stop or slow cancer cell growth.

Why is caution necessary?

A 2025 multi-center study found that long-term diabetes patients taking metformin had a slightly lower incidence of colon and liver cancer. However, this only suggests a correlation, not definitive proof. More clinical trials are underway to better understand the effectiveness of metformin against cancer.

Why is it wrong to self-medicate?

Experts clearly state that self-administration of metformin to prevent cancer is not advisable. This medication can have side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and in some cases, serious complications. The most important steps to prevent both diabetes and cancer are a balanced diet, regular exercise, good sleep, and regular health checkups. Medications should always be taken under the guidance of a doctor.