Cochise Oncology

Share This Post

Immunotherapy 101: What You Need to Know

Chemotherapy is the first cancer treatment most people think of, and though it remains essential for many patients, its side effects can make their fight against cancer even harder. Now, a new and innovative alternative is rapidly developing. Immunotherapy is helping thousands of people battle cancer with their own immune systems.

What is Immunotherapy?

Cancer immunotherapy is a treatment that strengthens your immune system so it can fight cancer. Sometimes called immuno-oncology, this cutting-edge approach to cancer helps your body boost its natural defense systems.

As cancer cells grow, your body’s immune system will naturally try to attack them. But since cancer cells grow faster than antibodies, it’s an impossible battle. That’s why immunotherapy bolsters the immune system so it’s more able to defend itself. Immunotherapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

What Types of Cancer Can Immunotherapy Treat?

Since it enhances your immune system, immunotherapy may treat many types of cancers and can also help protect you from bacterial infections and other illnesses. There are many types of immunotherapy, and only testing can determine if one of them will be effective against a particular patient’s cancer. In general, immunotherapy can treat many types of cancer, including cancer of the kidney, brain, breast, prostate, and more.

How Effective is Immunotherapy?

Research and clinical trials on immunotherapy are ongoing, and this innovative treatment is quickly developing and becoming more effective. So far, the average response rate to immunotherapy drugs is 20-50%. Cochise Oncology has helped many patients with immunotherapy, and we are hopeful this treatment will continue to advance.

What is Immunotherapy Treatment Like?

The advantage of immunotherapy is that it helps your body fight cancer in a more natural way without harming healthy cells. Immunotherapy typically has less severe side effects than chemotherapy or radiation.

There are multiple types of immunotherapy, and these may be administered through an IV, orally, or topically. The treatment may be daily, weekly, or monthly, and most people are on it for several months. Immunotherapy is often used to boost the immune system before or during another treatment like chemotherapy.

Most side effects of immunotherapy are actually a sign your immune system is working to fight off the cancer cells. Common side effects are similar to flu symptoms, such as:

Fever
Headache
Nausea
Fatigue
Rashes

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

How Long Will Immunotherapy Benefits Last?

For most people, it takes a couple of months of treatment to start feeling the benefits of immunotherapy. These should continue to improve as your immune system gets stronger. While you will experience the best results during and immediately after treatment, immunotherapy can offer long-term or even lifelong results. Some patients may be able to overcome cancer with immunotherapy alone, while others may need additional treatments.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.