Ovarian cancer vaccine: Can it prevent recurrence?

You may be referring to a study published in October 2006 in which 18 women with recurrent ovarian cancer received an experimental ovarian cancer vaccine. The vaccine prevented cancer recurrence for an average of 19 months. The theory behind the ovarian cancer vaccine is that it stimulates the immune system to attack any cancer cells that reappear. Although the vaccine compared favorably with the use of chemotherapy to prevent recurrent ovarian cancer, much more research is needed to evaluate the potential role vaccines may play in preventing ovarian cancer. Other vaccines that may prevent or reduce the risk of ovarian cancer are being tested in ongoing clinical trials.