We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is the Connection between Cancer and the Immune System?

Marjorie McAtee
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 3,299
Share

Cancer and the immune system are believed to be interconnected in two ways. Firstly, many cancer treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy can damage the immune system, leaving the body weakened and vulnerable to secondary infections. Secondly, the white cells of the immune system normally identify cancerous and pre-cancerous cells in the body, destroying them before they're allowed to grow out of control. The link between cancer and the immune system's role in defending the body against cancerous cells has led to an increased emphasis on the importance of immune system support for cancer patients, as well as for those hoping to prevent cancer. Many newer cancer treatments hope to capitalize on the link between cancer and the immune system.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy have traditionally been used to treat cancer. While these treatments can kill cancerous cells, they may also damage healthy cells. Unpleasant symptoms and secondary illnesses can occur as a result.

Patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy are usually encouraged to practice a lifestyle that boosts and supports proper immune function. In the healthy person, the immune system locates and eradicates any cancerous cells before they have a chance to replicate and form tumors. Doctors believe that some cancerous cells, however, may be able to temporarily evade this natural immune response by disguising themselves as healthy cells. Once a cancerous tumor forms, the healthy immune system is usually powerless to destroy it. Strengthening and supporting the immune system is, however, believed to help underscore the effectiveness of cancer treatment and increase the chances of recovery.

Immunity-boosting habits for patients include eating a balanced, nutritious diet rich in antioxidants. It's generally considered best to seek nutrition from foods, rather than vitamins or supplements. Exercising at least three times a week is also believed to boost immunity significantly. Stress-relief practices such as yoga or meditation can help with the treatment of cancer and the immune system, while therapeutic support groups are said to have a dramatic effect on patients' immune function.

Newer cancer treatments, like cancer vaccines, gene therapy, and biological response modifier (BRM) therapy, seek to treat cancer by strengthening and supporting the body's immune response against cancerous cells. These treatments seek to help make the body more resistant to cancer. Some may be able to provide an immunity to certain types of cancer, while others may help slow the growth of cancerous cells, or make immune cells more able to destroy them.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Marjorie McAtee
By Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee, a talented writer and editor with over 15 years of experience, brings her diverse background and education to everything she writes. With degrees in relevant fields, she crafts compelling content that informs, engages, and inspires readers across various platforms. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a skilled member of any content creation team.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee, a talented writer and editor with over 15 years of experience, brings her diverse background and education to everything she writes. With degrees in relevant fields, she crafts compelling content that informs, engages, and inspires readers across various platforms. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a skilled member of any content creation team.
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-the-connection-between-cancer-and-the-immune-system.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.