Is metformin the miracle drug?

Metformin has been called a “miracle drug” because of its low cost, minimal risks, and ability to stave off diabetes and potentially aging. An April 2019 study found metformin has the potential to help some people lose weight and maintain that weight loss for long periods of time.

What are the side effects of metformin?

Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, weakness, or a metallic taste in the mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If stomach symptoms return later (after taking the same dose for several days or weeks), tell your doctor right away.

Is cancer treatment more complicated for people with diabetes?

Memorial Sloan Kettering endocrinologist Azeez Farooki discusses the risk factors associated with diabetes and why cancer treatment may be more complicated for those who are diabetic. More than 25 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Can insulin help prevent cancer?

Some research raises the possibility that using insulin itself to correct hyperglycemia may curtail cancer growth and progression. “Both diabetes and cancer are considered inflammatory diseases, and involve inflammation at the cellular level,” he says.

Can the American Cancer Society and Diabetes Association collaborate to prevent cancer?

In this article, the American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association, and American Heart Association review strategies for the prevention and early detection of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, as the beginning of a new collaboration among the three organizations.

What kind of Doctor treats cancer patients with diabetes?

Azeez Farooki is a Memorial Sloan Kettering endocrinologist who specializes in treating cancer patients who also have diabetes. We spoke with Dr. Farooki about what special considerations are taken into account when treating this group of patients.