
Metformin and cancer: no broad benefit, only niche signals
A review of recent evidence shows metformin does not provide broad cancer prevention or survival benefits. Large trials (MAST in low‑risk prostate cancer; STAMPEDE) and meta-analyses report no overall improvement in progression-free or overall survival, though some small studies hint at preventive effects in select high‑risk precancerous conditions. Observational links are likely biased, and metformin may even blunt exercise‑related longevity gains. The takeaway: metformin is not a universal cancer solution; any benefit is likely limited to poorly defined, narrow contexts that require rigorous, targeted trials.











