Major Breakthrough Cancer Cures

In 2016, it was estimated there was approximately 1,685,200 new cancer cases diagnosed in the United States alone, as well as nearly 600,000 deaths. For years, researchers have searched for possible cures, as they endeavor to unlock the complex nature of cancer and its ability to rapidly mutate.

Although there are still far too many premature deaths due to cancer, doctors can now treat certain forms. Considering there are more than one hundred types of cancers, not all diagnoses are a death sentence. The following breakthrough cures have made a significant difference regarding overall mortality rates. Learn the full details about these now.

Chemotherapy

The population has differing opinions on chemotherapy, as many prefer a holistic approach if possible. In the early twentieth century, the only cure available was surgery. However, this was only effective for small and localized cancer masses. Once radiation was introduced, chemotherapy soon followed. Used after surgery took place, chemotherapy was able to destroy any remaining cancer cells in the body. This is known as adjuvant therapy, which was first tested effectively in breast cancer, before being used for both colon and testicular cancer. Today, combination chemotherapy is often used for fast-growing cancers, such as leukemia.

Keep reading to learn more about breakthroughs in cancer treatment now.

Immunotherapy

Humans already have a natural defense mechanism: the immune system. Naturally fighting diseases, such as cancer, immune function can be somewhat manipulated to work as an effective treatment. This can be done in quite a few ways, including stimulating an individual's immune system. When the immune system is stimulated, it works harder to attack cancer cells. Another way is 'training' the immune system to attack cancer cells, by adding human-made immune system proteins, also known as monoclonal antibodies. Vaccines and 'immune checkpoint inhibitors' are also available and, over the past three decades, immunotherapy has been an important aspect of cancer research.

Discover more breakthroughs made in cancer cures now.