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DeutschNon-small cell lung cancer, which accounts for about 85% of lung cancer cases, is one of the most common types of cancer. Referred to as “non-small cell lung cancer” (NSCLC) in the medical literature, this cancer generally progresses more slowly and is more open to different treatment options along with chemotherapy.
The disease is also divided into subtypes within itself. The most common subtypes are adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. The adenocarcinoma type is a form that can be seen especially in non-smokers and is more common in women. Therefore, the disease profile can be shaped not only by smoking but also by genetic and environmental factors.
The diagnosis of this type of cancer is generally made at advanced stages because early-stage symptoms are usually non-specific. Symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, weight loss, and chest pain are common. Therefore, it is important for individuals in the high-risk group to participate in regular screening programs.
How Common is Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer continues to be one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, millions of people are diagnosed with lung cancer every year, and the vast majority of these cases are of the non-small cell type.
A similar situation applies to Turkey. Lung cancer, which is the most common type of cancer in men, is also increasing among women. In this context, non-small cell lung cancer is an important public health problem that closely concerns not only the health system but also the relatives of patients and society in general.
According to epidemiological studies, the disease is more common in individuals aged 60 and over. Factors such as smoking, genetic predisposition, air pollution, and occupational exposure significantly increase the risk of developing the disease.
CIMAvax-EGF and Vaxira: How Do Cuba’s Developed Lung Cancer Vaccines Work?
Cuba has become a country that attracts worldwide attention with its innovative treatment approaches targeting the immune system. One of the most important developments in this field has been in the field of lung cancer vaccines. CIMAvax-EGF and Vaxira (racotumomab), developed by Cuba, are promising biotechnological products in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.
CIMAvax-EGF works by stimulating the immune system against the epidermal growth factor (EGF), which supports tumor growth. The vaccine triggers an immune response against EGF, thereby aiming to block the signals necessary for tumor cells to grow and multiply. Especially in clinical studies conducted in 2008, a significant increase in survival time was observed in patients who received CIMAvax-EGF.
Vaxira, on the other hand, is a tumor immunotherapy and creates an antibody response against NGcGM3 ganglioside found in tumor cells. This allows the immune system to recognize and destroy tumor cells more effectively. Both vaccines are not an alternative to classic chemotherapy but stand out as complementary biological agents that prolong life.
In addition, in studies published in 2017 by Saavedra, García, Alonso, and other researchers, it was stated that these vaccines developed in Cuba create safe and long-term effects on the immune system. These studies strengthen the scientific basis of lung cancer vaccine applications and provide a promising roadmap.
Which Lung Cancer Patients are Suitable for Vaccine Treatment in Cuba?
Lung cancer vaccine programs implemented in Cuba are based on certain criteria according to the general condition of the patient and the stage of the disease. In particular, patients who have completed conventional treatment processes such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be candidates for these programs.
Cuban experts prefer a clinical picture where the general health condition of the patient is stable and organ functions are preserved for the effectiveness of the vaccine. Suitability for vaccine treatment is evaluated by a multidisciplinary board after a detailed health screening.
The vaccine application usually provides more efficient results in individuals:
- With reduced tumor burden,
- Who responded well to systemic treatments,
- With high performance status.
This vaccination process implemented in Cuba is also carried out together with a holistic support program. Patient-specific nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and psychosocial support elements are also integrated into the treatment. In this way, not only the disease but also the general quality of life of the patient is targeted, and a multi-faceted recovery process is aimed.
As a result, vaccine treatments developed by Cuba for lung cancer and especially for non-small cell lung cancer patients are a promising and scientifically based alternative approach. When these treatments are evaluated together with classical methods, they have the potential to increase the lifespan and comfort of patients. Although these vaccines should not be presented as miraculous solutions, advances in lung cancer vaccine research may benefit larger patient groups in the coming years.
If you would like to get detailed information about lung cancer vaccine treatments in Cuba, you can visit our health consultancy page or check out our special content titled Lung Cancer: Innovative Treatment Options in Cuba.
