Probably not, but...
For several years now, there has been progress in finding
treatments that lengthen life and reduce side effects for guys with prostate
cancer. Much of the research has focused on late-stage cancer. The improvements
have been positive--but modest.
There will be an increased focus on a relatively new approach‑‑cancer
vaccines‑‑in 2012. These are targeted injections that stimulate your own immune
system to identify and kill specific cancer cells. The new vaccines will work
much like the vaccines you have already had for smallpox, measles, and other
common diseases. Some new vaccines in clinical trials have worked pretty well
for some people with some cancers and a new vaccine, Provenge, has been approved to treat
late-stage prostate cancer. There is a proven survival benefit—it’s not a cure.
Historically, some major treatments for prostate cancer have
depressed (weakened) the immune system—radiation and chemotherapy are good
examples. They are also known for their unpleasant side effects. A successful prostate
cancer vaccine would do the opposite—strengthen your immune system and build
antibodies that would be protective in the future. There would probably be few
side effects. Sounds good, doesn’t it! Want to know more about cancer vaccines?
Check out the National
Cancer Institute.
But there’s a long way to go; even the successful vaccines
don’t help everybody equally. I’m optimistic! Good luck to all us guys!
axman
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