Immunotherapy is a type of biological therapy that harnesses and enhances the power of a person’s own immune system to fight diseases, most notably cancer. Unlike chemotherapy (which directly kills rapidly dividing cells) or radiation (which damages DNA), immunotherapy works by helping the immune system recognize and destroy abnormal cells more effectively. It has revolutionized the treatment of many cancers (melanoma, lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, lymphomas) and is being studied for other diseases.
Understanding Immunotherapy Types
1. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs): Lab-made proteins that act like human antibodies. They can:
– Mark cancer cells so the immune system sees them.
– Block growth signals.
– Deliver toxins directly to cancer cells.
– Examples: Rituximab (for lymphoma), Trastuzumab (for HER2+ breast cancer).
2. Checkpoint inhibitors: The most common immunotherapy. Cancer cells often hide by turning off immune T-cells via “checkpoint” proteins (PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4). Checkpoint inhibitors block these brakes, restoring T-cell attack.
– Examples: Pembrolizumab (Keytruda), Nivolumab (Opdivo), Ipilimumab (Yervoy).
– Used for melanoma, lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, head/neck cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, and many others.
3. Adoptive cell transfer (CAR-T cell therapy): A patient’s own T-cells are removed, genetically engineered to recognize cancer (adding a chimeric antigen receptor – CAR), multiplied in the lab, and infused back into the patient.
– Examples: Tisagenlecleucel (Kymriah), Axicabtagene ciloleucel (Yescarta).
– Used for certain leukemias, lymphomas, and multiple myeloma.
4. Cancer vaccines: Designed to trigger an immune response against cancer-specific antigens.
– Preventive: HPV vaccine (prevents cervical, anal, throat cancers).
– Therapeutic: Sipuleucel-T (Provenge) for prostate cancer.
5. Immune system modulators (cytokines): Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferons – older immunotherapies that broadly stimulate immune cells.
The Role of Health and Wellness in Supporting Immunotherapy
A robust immune system is more likely to respond well to immunotherapy. Conversely, a suppressed or malnourished body may have poorer outcomes and more side effects.
Health and Wellness Tips for Immunotherapy Patients
1. Nourish with Nutrient-Rich Foods:
– High-protein foods: Lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, legumes – to support immune cell production and repair body tissue.
– Fruits and vegetables: Aim for a “rainbow” of colors for diverse antioxidants and phytochemicals.
– Whole grains for sustained energy.
– Healthy fats (olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds) – they have anti-inflammatory properties.
– Work with a dietitian – some immunotherapy side effects (diarrhea, rash, fatigue, thyroid issues) require dietary adjustments.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily. Hydration supports circulation, kidney function (many checkpoint inhibitors can cause nephritis), and overall well-being.
3. Prioritize Physical Activity as Tolerated:
– Exercise reduces fatigue, improves mood, and may enhance immune function.
– Start with short walks (5-10 minutes) and gradually increase. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days, but listen to your body.
– Consult your oncologist before starting or changing exercise routines.
4. Manage Stress (Chronic Stress Suppresses Immunity):
– Practice mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation.
– Engage in hobbies, listen to music, spend time in nature.
– Join a cancer support group (in-person or online).
– Seek professional counseling if feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed.
5. Get Sufficient Sleep (7-9 hours per night):
– Sleep is when immune cells are produced and activated.
– Practice good sleep hygiene: consistent bedtime, dark/cool/quiet room, no screens before bed.
– If insomnia is a problem, talk to your doctor (some medications or anxiety may be the cause).
6. Avoid Harmful Substances:
– Do not smoke – smoking impairs immune function and reduces immunotherapy efficacy.
– Limit alcohol – alcohol can stress the liver (some immunotherapies cause hepatitis) and suppress immunity. Many oncologists recommend complete abstinence during treatment.
7. Maintain Regular Medical Check-ups and Report Side Effects Promptly:
– Immunotherapy side effects are different from chemo. They are often “immune-related adverse events” (irAEs) – your immune system attacking normal tissues.
– Common irAEs: Rash, colitis (diarrhea), pneumonitis (cough, shortness of breath), hepatitis (jaundice), hypophysitis (headache, fatigue, low cortisol), thyroiditis, arthritis.
– Report any new symptom immediately – early treatment (often with steroids) can manage irAEs without stopping therapy.
– Do not take over-the-counter medications (especially NSAIDs) without asking your oncologist – they can worsen certain irAEs.
Conclusion
Immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment, offering durable remissions for some previously incurable cancers. To maximize its potential, support your body with good nutrition, hydration, exercise, sleep, stress management, and avoidance of toxins. Work closely with your oncology team to manage side effects promptly. A healthy lifestyle does not replace immunotherapy – it enhances it.
Author: Ritu Das Sarkar
