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Friday, 22 April 2005 11:25

BNN: British Nursing News Online · www.bnn-online.co.uk

Diabetes drug may stop cancers

A drug used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes may also prevent cancer, research has revealed.

Scientists from the University of Dundee analysed 6,000 patients with type 2 diabetes.

When they examined cancer rates among the same group, it was found that those taking the treatment metformin were 25 per cent less likely to develop a tumour.

The study, led by Professor Dario Alessi, discovered that metformin targets the enzyme AMPK which acts as a tumour suppressor by stopping the growth of cancer cells.

This finding would suggest that using metformin might reduce the risk of cancer.

Professor Andrew Morris who treats type 2 diabetes patients said: “Despite being the most widely used drug for people with the condition, it is only recently that we have learnt how it works.

“The possibility that it may have beneficial effects beyond diabetes control is very exciting.”

A large-scale study will be undertaken to verify the results.

According to Professor Alessi, because the drug is already on the market, 10 to 15 years will be cut from the time normally required for testing. Metformin could then be used as a preventative cancer drug within a couple of years.

Cancer Research UK responded positively to the news but stressed that it was necessary for the study to be verified before drawing firm conclusions.

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