SPOKANE, Wash. – While significant progress has been made in the fight against breast cancer over the past few decades, researchers emphasize that more work is needed. Dr. Nora Disis from the University of Washington School of Medicine is among those leading efforts to develop a breast cancer vaccine.
Dr. Disis said that several vaccines are currently in human clinical trials across the country, with some showing promising results. She believes that advancements in cancer vaccines—applicable not only to breast cancer but also to ovarian, pancreatic and liver cancers—signal a critical mass in research. This could lead to increased availability of effective vaccines for widespread use in the future.
“Many cancers that were once considered death sentences can now be managed, allowing patients to live full lives,” Dr. Disis said to NonStop Local.
Disis said that she is optimistic about cancer vaccines potentially preventing the development of certain cancers, which could significantly impact patient outcomes.
Dr. Disis will be giving a free community lecture at Gonzaga University on Oct. 9 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Hemmingson Center. The event will also be available via Zoom. Registration is required for both in-person and online attendance.
