Although cancer treatments have come a long way in recent decades, researchers still have yet to find a cure or preventive treatment for the illness. However, research on trial vaccines from the Stanford University School of Medicine shows promise. Alaska Oncology and Hematology, LLC, an Anchorage-based treatment center for cancer patients, shares details about the news here.

A Guide to Stanford’s Vaccine & How It May Impact Cancer Treatments

How Does the Cancer Vaccine Work?

In early 2018, Stanford researchers announced a vaccine injected directly into solid tumors in mice was able to eliminate cancer altogether in the animals. The vaccine is a form of immunotherapy, which uses the body’s own immune system to fight disease. Many types of immunotherapy stimulate immune system responses throughout the entire body, which can produce serious side effects; they are also costly to administer and require lengthy treatment times. With this new, inexpensive vaccine, however, only small amounts of agents are utilized to target tumors, but they have been shown to produce body-wide, cancer-fighting results—without adverse side effects.

What Stage of Trials Are Underway?

As of spring 2018, human trials were to begin at Stanford University School of Medicine. Researchers sought to include 35 participants with low-grade B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas. While the study is being conducted on patients with a common form of cancer, researchers suspect the treatment could work to combat many different types of the disease.

When Will It Become Available?

While the cancer treatment has been approved for use on people and considered safe for clinical trials, it has yet to receive final approval from the Food and Drug Administration. Researchers suspect that approval could take at least a year or two. That being said, many cancer centers can recommend eligible patients for participation in clinical trials to increase their odds of having access to cutting-edge treatments.

The caring professionals at Alaska Oncology and Hematology, LLC are committed to keeping pace with state-of-the-art cancer treatments as they evolve to provide the best level of support for their patients. If you or a loved one is seeking a compassionate and advanced oncology practice, don’t hesitate to visit their office’s website to learn more. You can also call (907) 279-3155 to learn more about their services and available treatment options.