When harmful invaders like viruses or bacteria enter the body, the immune system takes action to stop them. However, the body doesn’t naturally recognize cancer cells as a threat, so no immune response is triggered. Cancer vaccines are a type of immunotherapy that teaches the immune system to identify and eliminate cancer cells. At Penn Medicine, our medical oncologists are recognized for their expertise in using vaccines to boost the immune system as part of cancer treatment.
Types of cancer vaccines
Cancer vaccines train the body’s immune system to prevent or treat certain types of cancer. These vaccines are categorized based on their intended outcome and function, and each one has different methods and targets.
Some cancers are linked to viral infections and preventative vaccines help reduce the risk of infection. For example, human papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to cervical cancer or certain head and neck cancers. Similarly, Hepatitis B virus has been linked to liver cancer. Scientists have developed vaccines to protect against HPV and Hepatitis B infections, lowering the risk of these cancers.
Each tumor has a unique makeup that requires tailored treatments to target its specific characteristics. Therapeutic cancer vaccines work by targeting specific markers on cancer cells. For example, the sipuleucel-T vaccine targets specific markers in advanced prostate cancer, and the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine was the first immunotherapy for early-stage bladder cancer.
Tumors often go through unique mutations and develop new proteins called neoantigens, which are not found in healthy cells. Personalized neoantigen cancer vaccines are designed to target these mutated tumor cells precisely, minimizing damage to healthy cells and reducing side effects. Various neoantigen vaccines are being tested in clinical trials as standalone treatments and for use in combination with other cancer therapies.
Who is a candidate for cancer vaccine therapy?
Vaccine therapy is not appropriate for all diseases or cancer types. Your doctor will review your medical history to determine which cancer treatments are best for you. At Penn Medicine, we use vaccine therapy to treat:
What to expect from the vaccine therapy process
Cancer vaccines are typically administered through injection, like other vaccines. The number of doses required for each cancer vaccine varies depending on the vaccine type and the specific cancer. Some vaccines only need to be administered once, while others may require multiple doses over weeks, months, or years. Your care team will provide you with detailed instructions to ensure you are well informed and know what to expect before your treatment starts.
Managing recovery after a cancer vaccine
Recovering after receiving a cancer vaccine can be a unique experience for each patient, with side effects that vary depending on the specific vaccine and your individual health. Some common reactions to immunization for cancer include:
- Redness or swelling at the injection site
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Muscle aches
It’s important to communicate openly with your care team about any discomfort you experience, as they can offer strategies to help ease your symptoms. Taking time to rest, staying hydrated, and finding support from loved ones can also make the recovery process smoother and more manageable.
A pioneering approach to cancer vaccines
When you choose Penn Medicine for cancer vaccine treatment, you benefit from a legacy of groundbreaking medical innovations, including pioneering advancements in immunotherapy. Penn Medicine has been leading the way in developing personalized cancer vaccines and cell-based therapies like CAR T cell therapy, which trains the immune system to target and eliminate cancer cells. We also provide expert oncology navigators to guide you through every step of your treatment, so you have personalized support and access to the best resources available.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.
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A mom-inspired clinical trial journey to help others
“I wanted to participate in a clinical trial because I was inspired by my mom,” Kate Korson said. “I saw how brave she was and the success she had on a clinical trial. I felt like I received the best possible care by taking part in a clinical trial, and it feels good to know that I’m helping others by contributing to cancer research.”
Creating beauty out of a breast cancer journey
“Cancer isn’t just physically grueling. It mentally and emotionally tears you down,” Ginger Mimmo Rohlfing said of her experience navigating HER2-positive breast cancer, chemotherapy, mastectomy, and breast reconstruction surgery. Her paintings of leaf and petal patterns “were a metaphor for putting pieces of myself back together.”
Living and giving back for gynecologic cancer patients
Dalia Jakas wanted to live in spite of a uterine cancer recurrence in her 80s, but she wouldn’t accept any compromises on the quality of her life. After her proton therapy treatment, Jakas is now giving back by funding research to help other patients. “I am eternally grateful to Dr. Taunk and his competent team for saving my life,” she said.
From patient to advocate, battling breast cancer and disparities
With her metastatic breast cancer under control, Jamil Rivers is looking out for other Black women. “We’re trying to help them understand what to anticipate, what questions to ask, and how to be advocates for themselves.”
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Volunteering to intercept cancer for future generations
“I'm convinced that I would have had breast cancer in my 40s as my mother, my grandmother, and my grandmother’s sister all did,” said Maggie Gaines. She is now part of an innovative clinical trial aiming to intercept hereditary cancers before they start.
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I was completely shocked. I had no symptoms, I never smoked or spent time around smokers, and there is no history of lung cancer in my family.
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