Immunotherapy: The Fourth Pillar of Cancer Treatment
Immunotherapy is emerging as the "fourth pillar" of cancer treatments, alongside chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. This relatively new approach harnesses the power of the patient's immune system to fight the disease. Immunotherapy works by awakening the immune system to target cancer cells, either by blocking proteins that inhibit the immune response or by targeting abnormal proteins on the tumor's surface. Clinical trials have shown promising results, with some patients experiencing complete remission without the need for standard treatments. While immunotherapy is primarily used for blood cancers, it is also being explored for solid tumors. The future of immunotherapy looks promising, with ongoing advancements and the potential for AI to play a role in its development.