METFORMIN has been associated with 36% lower odds of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in a 2026 Nordic population-based case-control study.1
The preventative potential of the common diabetes drug was more noticeable in those prescribed higher dosages.
Metformin Use and Lower Odds of OSCC
Data was collected from Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) between 1994 and 2023.
Researchers analysed more than 13,000 people diagnosed with OSCC during the relevant period, with a median age of 70-years-old. Each patient was compared with 10 times as many control participants.
Metformin use was associated with 36% lower odds of OSCC compared with non-use.
Underlying Pathways Behind the Association
The decrease in OSCC risk is unlikely to be due to any association with diabetes itself because diabetes is not known to decrease the odds of OSCC,2 researchers highlighted.
Instead, the primary pathway is thought to be through metformin’s activation of AMP-activated protein kinase and its inhibition of the mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor-signalling pathway.
This ultimately leads to the suppression of cell growth, promotion of apoptosis, and regulation of autophagy, authors said.
Could Metformin be Used in OSCC Prevention and Treatment?
Researchers highlighted the possible role of metformin in OSCC treatment, with findings also providing the foundation for investigations into its use as a preventative option in high-risk populations.
Not only that, but they pointed to future investigations into the use of metformin after treatment for OSCC, calling for an analysis as to whether it would improve survival rates.
Suggestions were brought forward in the context of metformin’s strong safety profile, wide availability, and low cost.
References
1 Xie S-H et al. Metformin use and development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. JAMA Netw Open Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2026;DOI:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.2027.
2 Zhang SH et al. Metabolic syndrome and risk of esophageal cancer by histological type: systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies. Cancer Epidemiol. 2025;DOI:10.1016/j.canep.2025.102849.
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