The FDA approved a new prostate cancer vaccine (Provenge) in April 2010. This vaccine stimulates the body’s immune system by helping specific cancer-fighting cells (dendritic cells) to identify and destroy prostate cancer cells. The therapy requires 3 injections of the vaccine within one month, and costs approximately $100,000 for the course.
It has been shown to increase the survival time in men with late stage prostate cancer, by 4 months. This is certainly no cure, but it significantly increases the length of survival in these men who have few other options. The vaccine is only approved for treatment in those men for whom hormonal therapies are no longer effective.
The immune system is an important aspect of one’s natural ability to both prevent and fight cancer. Integrative oncology teaches core principles that help to maintain and strengthen the immune system. Learn more about these principles on our website.
