Propelled by advances
in molecular biology, the treatment of colorectal cancer is on the
verge of dramatic change and a promising future as innovative
vaccines will replace chemotherapy. According to a new report from
Kalorama Information, "Cancer Vaccines: Market Forecasts, New
Developments and Pipeline Analysis," this market, lead by OncoVAX, is
poised for unprecedented growth, creating countless opportunities for
market participants.
More than 1.2 million cases of colon cancer are diagnosed worldwide
each year with more than 529,000 deaths, which displays a considerable
medical need. In the United States colorectal cancer is the second
most common cause of cancer, accounting for approximately 50,000
deaths and about 20% of all deaths from cancer.
Most new cases of colon cancer require surgery for removal of tumors
followed by chemotherapy to prevent recurrences. A vaccine that
eliminates cancer recurrences without the side effects and with a
better survival rate will be very beneficial to patients after
colorectal cancer surgery.
Past attempts to find cancer vaccines failed because scientists had a
crude understanding of the molecular mechanics of the immune system
and cancer cells. But patients will soon benefit from advances in DNA
profiling and the emerging field of pharmacogenomics.
"Pharmacogenomics will lead to tailored treatments based on a tumor's
specific genetic profile, which will allow physicians to treat tumors
based on their genetic make-up rather than their location," notes
Kalorama Information analyst Melissa Elder. "One such tailored
treatment is OncoVAX offered by Vaccinogen to treat colorectal
cancer."
Several colorectal cancer vaccines are in development, including
TroVAX, Avicine and Oncophage in phase II, but the closest to market
is OncoVAX. Currently in Phase III development, OncoVAX is an
active-specific immunotherapeutic for the post-surgical treatment of
patients diagnosed with Stage II colon cancer. It is prepared using
the patient's own surgically removed tumor, which is enzymatically
treated, frozen, and irradiated to render the cells non-tumorogenic.
Kalorama Information's report "Cancer Vaccines: Market Forecasts, New
Developments and Pipeline Analysis," focuses on both preventative and
therapeutic cancer vaccines in development. A market overview, cancer
statistics, market estimates and forecasts for 2008-2012 are
included, as well as discussions of current issues and trends
affecting the industry. For further information click here.
About Kalorama Information
Kalorama Information supplies the latest in independent market
research in the life sciences, as well as a full range of custom
research services. We routinely assist the media with healthcare
topics.
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