Russia has claimed a major step forward in cancer treatment, with its new cancer vaccine completing preclinical trials. According to Veronika Skvortsova, head of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency (FMBA), the vaccine showed both safety and strong efficacy.
Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), she said, "The research spanned several years, with the last three dedicated to mandatory preclinical studies."
Skvortsova added, "The vaccine is now ready for use; we are awaiting official approval," as quoted by TASS. She stated that the trials confirmed the vaccine’s safety, even with repeated administration, and suggested significant effectiveness. Russian researchers reported tumour size reduction and slowed tumour progression in the range of 60% to 80%, depending on cancer type, along with improved survival rates.
Officials said the initial use of the vaccine would be for colorectal cancer. They also pointed to advanced progress in vaccines for glioblastoma and specific melanomas, including ocular melanoma.
The announcement was made during the 10th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, held from September 3–6 under the theme “The Far East: Cooperation for Peace and Prosperity.” The forum hosted more than 8,400 participants from over 75 countries, with over 100 thematic sessions across seven tracks.
Cancer vaccines, according to the American Cancer Society, differ from traditional vaccines for infections like measles or chickenpox. They are designed to help the immune system detect and fight tumour cells. Some are already approved for prostate and bladder cancers, while others, such as the HPV vaccine, are used for cancer prevention.