Russia’s Ministry of Health has announced the development of a cancer vaccine slated for free distribution to patients in early 2025. The announcement was made by Andrey Kaprin, director of the Radiology Medical Research Center. Russian state media reports that the vaccine will be used to treat cancer patients and not administered to the general population as a means of prevention.
The vaccine is reportedly tailored to individual patients, aligning with Western cancer vaccine development approaches. Details regarding the specific cancers it targets, its efficacy, and the logistics of its rollout have not been disclosed as of the time of publication. The vaccine’s name also remains confidential.
Cancer remains a significant health issue in Russia, with over 635,000 cases recorded in 2022. Colon, breast, and lung cancers are reportedly the most prevalent forms. Personalized vaccines, like the one Russia claims to have developed, are custom-made using genetic material from a patient’s tumor. These vaccines are designed to train the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cell proteins and antigens.
Research into personalized cancer vaccines is ongoing worldwide. In the United States, the University of Florida tested a similar approach in patients with glioblastoma. The vaccine generated a robust immune response within 48 hours of administration, according to study lead Elias Sayour. Meanwhile, trials in the United Kingdom are examining a personalized melanoma vaccine. This has reportedly shown promise in increasing survival odds for severe skin cancer.
