Using metformin to prevent lung cancer in obese ex-smokers

Metformin for chemoprevention of lung cancer in obese subjects at high risk

NIH-funded research Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp · NIH-10898815

This study is looking at whether metformin, a medication often used for diabetes, can help prevent lung cancer in people who are overweight or obese and have smoked in the past, by seeing how it might improve the immune system in their lungs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRoswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Buffalo, United States)
Project IDNIH-10898815 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of metformin, a common diabetes medication, to prevent lung cancer in individuals who are overweight or obese and have a history of smoking. The study focuses on understanding how obesity affects the immune environment in the lungs and how metformin may reverse these changes to reduce cancer risk. By examining the immunological effects of metformin, the research aims to establish its role as a chemopreventive agent specifically for those at high risk of lung cancer due to their weight and smoking history.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are obese or overweight ex-smokers who are at high risk for developing lung cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or obese, or who have never smoked, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new preventive treatment option for lung cancer in a significant population of high-risk individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results for metformin in cancer prevention, particularly in obese populations, suggesting a potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Buffalo, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.