J Clin Endocrinol Metab

GLP-1s linked to reduced mortality in patients with cancer, diabetes

January 15, 2026

This cohort study of 3,747 patients with T2DM starting cancer therapy within three months of beginning GLP‑1 RAs showed a 12.5% lower all‑cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.875; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.778–0.985; p=0.0268) compared with 52,061 metformin-treated controls; mortality benefit was more pronounced in those newly initiated on GLP‑1 RAs (HR, 0.786; 95% CI, 0.662–0.934; p=0.0062). Secondary outcomes included fewer hospitalizations, sepsis, MACE, pulmonary embolism, and pneumonia.

Clinical takeaway: Consider GLP-1 RAs for diabetes management in patients with active cancer, as emerging evidence suggests potential survival benefits and reduced hospitalization beyond glycemic control. Prospective trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Source:

Mahadevan A, et al. (2026, January 2). J Clin Endocrinol Metab. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Patients with Cancer are Associated with Reduced All-Cause Mortality and Hospitalization. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41482652/