An mRNA vaccine given to people with early-stage pancreatic cancer is showing promise. Half the patients in a small clinical trial are still alive six years after starting the treatment.
Typically, just over 1 in 10 people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer live for more than five years.
The vaccine works by prompting an immune response that destroys cancer cells -- both pre-existing cells and new ones. Researchers told NBC News that the results are promising, but larger studies are needed.
The findings will be presented on Monday at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.
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