New Cancer Vaccine Treatment

The diagnosis of any type of cancer can be devastating news for a patient. According to the Mayo Clinic, the second-most common cause of death in the United States is cancer. Cancer is characterized by the uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells that damage your healthy tissues. Fortunately, there are several treatment options. Thanks to new research in the area of cancer vaccines, you may even be able to help prevent cancer from developing.

Types

• The National Cancer Institute identifies two broad types of cancer vaccinations. These are preventative (prophylactic) vaccines and treatment (therapeutic) vaccines. Treatment vaccines work to treat existing cancer in patients, while preventative vaccines aim to prevent cancer from developing.

Effects

• Another name for cancer vaccines is a biological response modifier. According to the National Cancer Institute, these vaccines work by strengthening the immune system and triggering its function in fighting off infections. They do this by helping certain cells (such as killer T cells) in your body to recognize and attack certain types of cancer cells.

Identification

• There are several cancer vaccinations available, such as Gardasil, Provenge, BiovaxID, Oncophage, Sutent and Sprycel. Some vaccinations treat only specific types of cancer. For example, Gardasil is for cervical cancer and Provenge fights prostate cancer.

Warning

• Like any drug, side effects are possible with cancer vaccinations. Some possible side effects may include pain, swelling and redness at the injection site, as well as fatigue, dizziness, chills, headache, fever, nausea, vomiting and other flu-like symptoms.

Theories/Speculation

• According to the National Cancer Institute, it may be possible to use cancer treatment vaccines in conjunction with traditional cancer treatments. These treatment vaccines may be helpful when combined with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.