Activating Hope: Immunotherapy May Change the Fight Against Colorectal Cancer

(BPT) – Colorectal cancer (CRC) has become an epidemic that demands our attention. Every day, Americans of all ages and walks of life receive a diagnosis of CRC. Unfortunately, this reality upends every aspect of life for both patients and their loved ones, sending them on an urgent quest for answers and for effective treatment options. CRC is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States in men and women combined. Diagnoses of CRC are on the rise in younger Americans, and it is now the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50. By 2023, it’s projected to be the leading cause of cancer deaths in all people under 50. Without early screening, CRC can remain undetected until the disease is advanced, leaving patients with limited to no curative treatment options. People living with CRC face numerous challenges throughout their journey, navigating the complex healthcare system, managing the financial burden of treatment, and overcoming the physical and emotional toll. The oncology community has been listening — and working to bring hope to this crisis. Decades of research have revealed that the most potent tools to fight cancer are within our own bodies, waiting to be unleashed. This approach is called immunotherapy. Immunotherapy drugs are designed to harness the body’s natural immune system to attack and eliminate cancer cells. These therapies activate the body to win the battle against cancer. Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s approval of the first immunotherapy for use in melanoma in 2011, this approach has successfully expanded into a wide range of cancers and opened the door to a new generation of cancer therapies. Dr. Steven O’Day, Chief Medical Officer at Agenus, was part of the team of melanoma researchers that pioneered the immuno-oncology revolution. “I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of immunotherapy in cancer treatment,” Dr. O’Day says. “Currently, there is a concerning rise in colorectal cancer among young adults, highlighting the urgent need for improved treatment options. I firmly believe that novel immunotherapies have the potential to address this pressing issue.” This revolutionary approach is changing the way many cancers are treated — a breakthrough that is desperately needed, particularly in advanced-stage CRC. Clinical trials play a crucial role in the development of new treatments, including novel immunotherapies. These studies provide patients the opportunity to access innovative treatments and high-quality care, while contributing to the advancement of medical science. Clinical trials are designed to improve patient care and establish more effective therapeutic options. Agenus is committed to patients and understands the urgent need in the CRC community. Together with physicians, patients, caregivers and advocates across the globe, Agenus has activated a mission to improve the lives of those affected by this disease. The company has launched an ongoing clinical trial of its novel immunotherapy for eligible patients with advanced CRC. To learn more about Agenus’ clinical trial visit: www.Activate-study.com. Agenus believes that together we can harness the extraordinary power of the immune system to conquer cancer.