Are there vaccines that can prevent cancer?

There are indeed vaccines that can help prevent certain types of cancer. These vaccines work by preventing infections that increase the risk of certain cancers.

The HPV vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus 5HPV), which is responsible for most cases of cervical cancer, as well as a significant number of cases of anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile and oropharyngeal cancers. The HPV vaccine is usually given to boys and girls in adolescence before they become sexually active.

The Hepatitis B vaccine protects against the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) virus. Infections with this can lead to chronic liver disease and increase the risk of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). The hepatitis B vaccine, which is often given to newborns, provides long-term protection against the virus and thus reduces the risk of liver cancer.

These vaccines target viral infections that are strongly linked to the development of cancer. By preventing the infections, these vaccines significantly reduce the risk of associated cancers.

There are also vaccines that can help prevent cancer recurrence in people with cancer. These vaccines are still in development.

Source: https://academic.oup.com/jnci/article/101/19/1348/1074629

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-02-22 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024