Using the immune system
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapies used to treat cancer differ from other forms of therapy in that this treatment does not directly target the tumor cells. Instead, the body's own immune system is specifically used, supported and strengthened to fight the cancer.
The difficulty here is that cancer cells can "trick" the immune system so that they are not recognized as harmful.
Studies underway
Immunotherapy makes use of the body's own defense mechanisms. It must be used in a very targeted manner in order to bypass the cancer cells' evasive maneuvers and direct the body's own defenses directly at the cancer cells. Only a few immunotherapies have already been approved for the treatment of cancer patients. Others are being intensively tested both in basic research and in clinical trials.
Cancer research in Bavaria
Despite all the challenges: Immunotherapies offer new perspectives and possibilities in the fight against cancer and are a great hope in current cancer research. Cancer research is promoted and knowledge is pooled at the six Bavarian university hospitals and the research and care centers supported by the universities, the Cancer Comprehensive Centers (CCC). Here, scientists conduct interdisciplinary research in close cooperation on issues relating to the development and treatment of cancer. Clinical studies are conducted and shared across all locations. The aim is to quickly transfer results into clinical practice and significantly improve the care of cancer patients in Bavaria.
Further information on immunotherapy can be found at the German Center for Immunotherapy (DZI).
Success with some types of cancer
Immunotherapies are already showing significant success, particularly in the treatment of skin and lung cancer. However, there are still major challenges: for example, not every patient responds equally to immunotherapy. The reasons for this, how immunotherapies can be combined if necessary and whether they are more effective in combination with chemotherapy, for example, are still being researched.
Telephone cancer counseling
You can also obtain further general information on the subject of cancer therapy via the free BürgerTelefonKrebs: 0800 85 100 80.
Our staff will be happy to answer your questions and help you!
