Did you know that immunotherapy is rapidly becoming one of the most promising cancer treatments available today? In fact, immunotherapy has revolutionised cancer care by enhancing the body’s natural defence mechanisms to fight cancer. Unlike traditional treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy has fewer side effects, making it an increasingly preferred alternative for many patients in India.
This blog will explain how immunotherapy works, its benefits, and whether it’s the right choice for cancer patients in Delhi.
What is Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It either stimulates the immune system to work harder or provides it with additional components, such as man-made immune system proteins, to target cancer cells more effectively.
Immunotherapy works in two key ways:
- Boosting the immune response – It strengthens the body's immune system to enhance its ability to recognise and fight cancer.
- Marking cancer cells as threats – It helps the immune system identify cancer cells and destroy them, as the body may not always recognise cancer cells as harmful.
Types of Immunotherapy
There are several types of immunotherapy, each tailored to target specific types of cancer:
- Checkpoint Inhibitors: These therapies work by removing the “brakes” on the immune system, allowing it to attack cancer cells. They are commonly used for cancers like lung cancer, melanoma, and kidney cancer.
- CAR-T Cell Therapy: Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy involves modifying a patient's immune cells to better target cancer. This is primarily used for blood cancers such as leukaemia and lymphoma.
- Monoclonal Antibodies: These lab-made proteins attach to cancer cells, making them visible to the immune system. They can either directly kill cancer cells or mark them for destruction.
- Cancer Vaccines: Cancer vaccines stimulate the immune system to fight cancer or prevent its progression. They are used both for cancer prevention and for boosting the immune response against existing cancers.
- Cytokine Therapy: Cytokines such as interleukins and interferons are proteins that help enhance the immune system’s attack on cancer cells. This therapy can help boost the body’s natural ability to fight cancer.
Benefits of Immunotherapy for Cancer Patients
Immunotherapy offers several benefits that make it a compelling choice for many cancer patients:
- Targets cancer cells without damaging healthy cells – Unlike chemotherapy, which can affect healthy tissues, immunotherapy selectively targets cancer cells.
- Fewer side effects – Common chemotherapy side effects like hair loss and nausea are significantly reduced with immunotherapy.
- Long-lasting immune memory – Immunotherapy can help the immune system “remember” cancer cells, potentially preventing the cancer from returning.
- Effective for advanced-stage cancers – Immunotherapy has been shown to work effectively for cancers that are resistant to traditional treatments like chemotherapy.
Who Can Benefit from Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is most effective for patients with certain types of cancer. Those who may benefit include:
- Lung cancer
- Skin cancer (melanoma)
- Blood cancers (leukaemia, lymphoma)
- Kidney cancer
- Cervical cancer
Factors determining eligibility for immunotherapy include:
- Cancer type and stage
- Overall health condition
- Genetic markers – Some cancers respond better to immunotherapy due to specific genetic mutations.
If you or a loved one are considering immunotherapy, it’s best to consult with a healthcare expert to determine whether it’s the right treatment option.
The Bottom Line
Immunotherapy is transforming cancer treatment by leveraging the body’s natural defences to fight cancer. With its targeted approach, fewer side effects, and potential for long-term benefits, immunotherapy is an option that many cancer patients are turning to. If you or a loved one are considering cancer treatment options, speak with an expert oncologist to explore if immunotherapy is right for you.
Fight Cancer with Advanced Treatments – Book Your Consultation at AS LifeLine Cancer Care Now!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is immunotherapy better than chemotherapy?
Immunotherapy enhances the immune system with fewer side effects, while chemotherapy directly kills cancer cells but affects healthy tissues.
How long does immunotherapy treatment last?
Immunotherapy duration varies based on cancer type and patient response, typically lasting from a few months to a year.
Are there any side effects of immunotherapy?
Common side effects include fatigue, skin reactions, or flu-like symptoms, which are usually milder than those of chemotherapy.
Is immunotherapy available in India?
Yes, leading cancer hospitals in India provide immunotherapy as part of advanced cancer treatment options.
How can I check whether I am eligible for immunotherapy?
Consult an oncologist to assess your cancer type, stage, and genetic markers to determine if immunotherapy is a suitable option.
