Science
Immunotherapy: The Body's Cancer Fight

Discover immunotherapy, a revolutionary treatment that uses your own immune system to find and destroy cancer cells. Learn how it works.
What is it?
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that harnesses the power of a person's own immune system to fight cancer. Instead of directly attacking cancer cells like chemotherapy or radiation, immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and eliminate them more effectively. This can be done by stimulating the immune system to work harder or by giving it man-made components, such as monoclonal antibodies. Major types include checkpoint inhibitors, which release the natural brakes on immune cells, and CAR T-cell therapy, where a patient's T-cells are genetically engineered to target cancer.
Why is it trending?
Immunotherapy is trending due to its remarkable success in treating cancers that were once considered untreatable, such as advanced melanoma and lung cancer. These breakthroughs, some of which have been recognized with Nobel Prizes, have generated immense excitement in the medical community and public. Unlike traditional therapies, immunotherapy can lead to long-lasting remissions in some patients, offering a durable response. The continuous development of new immunotherapeutic drugs and combination therapies keeps it at the forefront of cancer research and a source of hope for many.
How does it affect people?
For patients, immunotherapy offers a powerful new weapon against cancer, potentially with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. It can lead to significant improvements in survival and quality of life. However, it doesn't work for everyone, and its effectiveness varies by cancer type and individual. It can also cause unique side effects when the boosted immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and organs, leading to conditions like colitis, hepatitis, or skin rashes. Managing these immune-related adverse events is a crucial part of the treatment process for patients undergoing immunotherapy.