Russia’s Cancer Vaccine Clears Preclinical Trials
Russia has announced a breakthrough cancer vaccine ready for clinical use, following successful preclinical trials that demonstrated high efficacy and safety, according to Veronika Skvortsova, head of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency (FMBA). The announcement was made at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), Tass reported.
“The research spanned several years, with the last three dedicated to mandatory preclinical studies,” Skvortsova said. “The vaccine is now ready for use; we are awaiting official approval.”
Promising Results: Tumour Reduction and Increased Survival
Preclinical studies showed that repeated administration of the vaccine was safe and significantly effective. Researchers observed tumour size reductions and slower tumour progression ranging from 60% to 80%, depending on the disease. Additionally, the vaccine improved survival rates in the experimental models.
The vaccine’s initial focus will be on colorectal cancer, while glioblastoma and certain types of melanoma, including ocular melanoma, are in advanced stages of development.
Eastern Economic Forum Highlights Innovation in Healthcare
The 10th Eastern Economic Forum, held in Vladivostok from September 3–6, brought together over 8,400 participants from 75+ countries and territories. Under the theme “The Far East: Cooperation for Peace and Prosperity,” the forum featured more than 100 thematic sessions across seven tracks, highlighting advancements in science, technology, and healthcare.
What Are Cancer Vaccines?
Unlike traditional vaccines that prevent infections like measles or chickenpox, cancer vaccines train the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells. Some vaccines are used for treatment, while others focus on prevention, such as the HPV vaccine that helps protect against cervical cancer.
Currently, cancer vaccines exist for certain prostate and bladder cancers, with research underway for many other types. The Russian vaccine represents a promising new step in the development of therapies that could enhance the body’s natural defenses against cancer.
In short: Russia’s new cancer vaccine is a potential game-changer, offering safe and effective treatment starting with colorectal cancer, and may pave the way for future breakthroughs in cancer therapy.
FAQs
1. What cancer vaccine has Russia announced?
Russia has announced a cancer vaccine that has successfully completed preclinical trials and is ready for clinical use, with plans to provide it free to patients.
2. Which cancers will the vaccine target first?
The vaccine will initially target colorectal cancer, with promising progress in vaccines for glioblastoma and certain types of melanoma, including ocular melanoma.
3. How effective is Russia’s cancer vaccine?
Preclinical trials showed tumour reduction and slowed progression by 60–80%, depending on the cancer type, and improved survival rates in experimental studies.
4. Is the vaccine safe for patients?
Yes, studies confirmed the vaccine’s safety even with repeated administration. Researchers did not observe serious side effects in preclinical trials.
5. What is a cancer vaccine?
Cancer vaccines help the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. Some vaccines prevent cancer, like the HPV vaccine, while others are used for treatment of existing cancers.
6. Where was this announcement made?
The announcement was made by Veronika Skvortsova, head of the FMBA, at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on September 3–6, 2025.
