All posts by Chris

Cancer Patients – The Struggle to Understand Clinical Trial Opportunities

Cancer Patients Can Struggle to Understand if a Clinical Trial is Right for Them
Cancer Patients Can Struggle to Understand if a Clinical Trial is Right for Them

Clinical trials are essential for continued development of immunotherapy and other cancer treatment methods. A recent study shows that while cancer patients recognize the importance of clinical trials, they lack the same understanding about the concepts behind the process.

What Is the Public Conception of Clinical Trials?

Oncologist Catherine Kelly of Mater Misericordiae University Hospital in Dublin led a study involving 1,090 cancer patients being treated in centers across Ireland. Kelly presented the results at the September meeting of the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) in Madrid.

Despite the fact that more than 25 percent of the subjects had previously participated in clinical trials, misunderstanding of central concepts was widespread throughout the responses.

  • Nearly three-quarters of those who had never taken part in a clinical trial didn’t understand that the types of treatment are randomly assigned. Surprisingly, this also applied to more than half of the patients who had participated in trials.
  • Most patients didn’t understand the concept of clinical equipoise, in which no one knows which of the treatments being tested is better. With previous clinical trial participants, an astonishing 60 percent believed that their doctor knew which treatment was better.

Why Understanding of Clinical Trials Matters

Results of this study were consistent with those from earlier studies. Kelly pointed out the need for doctors to address these misconceptions that instill fear in patients, preventing them from participating in trials.

Issels®: Cancer Treatment that Meets the Test of Time

At Issels®, our cancer vaccines and other immunotherapy treatments are not trials. Contact us to learn more about our long-standing success with individually tailored cancer treatment protocols.

Immunotherapy and Its Use in Stage 2 and 3 Cancers

There is New Hope for Cancer Patients. Don't Give up!
There is New Hope for Cancer Patients. Don’t Give up!

Immunotherapy drugs have become a valuable weapon in the fight against metastatic cancer, also known as Stage 4. Researchers are discovering that immunotherapy for cancer treatment can also have positive results when used during earlier stages of the disease.

Immunotherapy and Early-Stage Cancer

At the recent European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) congress in Madrid, AstraZeneca presented successful trial results for its immuno-oncology drug Imfinzi in treating mid-stage lung cancer. AstraZeneca is considered a latecomer to the I-O field as compared to established companies such as Merck and Bristol-Meyers Squibb.

For their part, Bristol-Meyers produced evidence regarding Opdivo, the company’s widely used late-stage I-O drug. Opdivo has been shown to prevent relapses in melanoma patients when administered immediately post-surgery.

Supplementing Surgery with Immunotherapy

This method of following surgery with cancer treatment is referred to as adjuvant therapy. With the success of Opdivo, a number of trials are being conducted on adjuvant therapy using I-O drugs with a range of cancer types. Some trials are even focusing on neoadjuvant, or pre-surgery, treatment for breast, neck and head cancers.

What’s Next?

If the trend of early-stage immunotherapy treatment continues, early detection becomes even more important than ever. According to Pascal Soriot, CEO of AstraZeneca, effective early treatment is a powerful incentive for increased use of screening methods.

Non-Toxic Immunotherapy Programs from Issels®

Our cancer vaccines and other non-toxic, personally tailored immunotherapy treatment programs have resulted in long-term remission for patients with all types of therapy-resistant cancers. Contact us for more information about Issels®, the leader in immunotherapy for cancer treatment.

What Can I Expect at the Issels Mexico In-Patient Hospital?

Do You Have Questions About What to Expect If You Come to Issels?
Do You Have Questions About What to Expect If You Come to Issels?

Cancer treatment is stressful and trying under the best of conditions. A first-class facility and caring staff can make a big difference in your peace of mind. Here’s an actual patient testimonial about her reassuring experience at our Issels® Mexico immunotherapy for cancer in-patient hospital.

“One Pleasant Surprise After Another”

Rita Possehl and her companion Teryl Springstead visited our Issels® Medical Center in Tijuana unsure of what to expect. The two were so satisfied with their experience that they wanted to share their recommendation with other potential patients.

“Caring and Considerate Staff”

One thing that immediately struck Rita and Teryl was the frequency of visits from staff members. The doctors stopped in at least once a day, and other staff members wore name tags and announced themselves each time they entered the room.

Ironically, it can sometimes be a challenge to get rest in a hospital room due to round-the-clock visits for vital sign checks. At Issels®, the checks begin around 8:00 AM and end around 10:00 PM so you can enjoy uninterrupted sleep.

“We Felt Pampered”

Rita and Teryl were impressed by how the staff worked to accommodate the wishes of both. For instance, the women were amazed to discover that Teryl’s dietary preferences were also honored along with Rita’s.

At the end of their stay, Rita and Teryl were pleased with the “warm, friendly staff” and “wholesome, delicious food” and recommended Issels® to other medical companions.

Quality Care at a Comfortable Location

Contact us to learn more about immunotherapy for cancer at our Issels® Medical Center in Tijuana, Mexico.

What Makes the Issels Immunotherapy Approach So Different?

Each Person is Different, and as a Result, so is Every Treatment Plan!
Each Person is Different, and as a Result, so is Every Treatment Plan!

Choosing a cancer treatment program can be the most important decision you’ll ever face. What makes the Issels® immunotherapy for cancer approach so different from traditional forms of cancer treatment?

Issels® Treatment Programs Are Individually Developed

Regardless of the type of cancer, each patient’s experience is unique. Our treatment programs are personally tailored to address a patient’s specific needs.

Issels® Therapies Are Created from a Patient’s Own Immune Cells

Issels® immunotherapy protocols boost your body’s immune response to use the power of your own natural defense mechanisms.

Issels® Immunotherapy Has No Adverse Side Effects

Immunotherapy is non-toxic and has less risk of side effects than traditional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. Our immunotherapy programs should also be distinguished from pharmaceutically-developed immunotherapy drugs, which can trigger serious negative reactions.

Issels® Immunotherapy Programs Are Comprehensive

Focusing cancer treatment on one form can limit its impact on the disease. Our immunotherapy programs integrate a number of complementary elements that work together for greater effectiveness.

Issels® Treatment Programs Focus on Cancer and Its Environment

Destroying cancer cells is only part of the process. Our immunotherapy for cancer is also directed at altering the internal environment that promotes tumor growth.

Issels® Immunotherapy Is Not a Trial

Patients who participate in clinical trials may end up receiving a placebo. Our cancer vaccines and gene-targeted therapies have stood the test of time.

Experience the Issels® Difference

Want to learn more? Visit our website to read and hear testimonials from patients who have achieved years and decades of recurrence-free remission thanks to our Issels® immunotherapy for cancer programs.

Issels In-Patient Program in Tijuana, Mexico

In-patient Programs are a Great Option for Quick Support when You Need it Most!
In-patient Programs are a Great Option for Quick Support when You Need it Most!

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, getting well becomes your top priority. Focus on your health with integrative immunotherapy for cancer treatment at our Issels® in-patent program in Tijuana, Mexico.

Top Quality Medical Facilities and Services

You will receive personalized attention beginning with your arrival in Tijuana, where our hospital driver provides private transport from the airport for you and your companions. You’ll be taken directly to the newest and most modern facility in Mexico’s largest private hospital chain.

Enjoy peace of mind knowing that the hospital meets the highest international standards in patient care as determined by the International Patient Safety Goal requirements. Modern, first-class equipment and features include:

  • CAT scan and MRI
  • Eight intensive care units and 12 operating suites
  • Outpatient surgical center
  • Emergency room and pharmacy
  • Restaurant and community areas
  • Spacious private rooms and suites

State-of-the-Art Immunotherapy for Cancer

Members of our Issels® team are experienced with both conventional cancer treatments and integrative immunotherapy protocols. Our integration of cancer vaccines into a comprehensive core program has helped a number of patients achieve long-term remission.

At Issels®, we go the extra mile to find the right solution for you, regardless of type or stage of cancer. In addition to collaborating with specialists in all medical fields, our doctors hold video conferences to discuss patients and treatments.

Issels®: Your Full-Service Resource for Comprehensive Cancer Treatment

Get the expert and compassionate cancer treatment you need and deserve. Contact us to learn more about why our Issels® in-patient program in Tijuana, Mexico is a leader in personally tailored immunotherapy for cancer programs.

Issels Out-Patient Apartments in Santa Barbara, California

There Truly is Nothing More Relaxing nor Refreshing than Focusing on Getting Better By the Beach.
There Truly is Nothing More Relaxing nor Refreshing than Focusing on Getting Better By the Beach.

Lifestyle and environment are two major factors that affect your health and well-being. When you receive out-patient immunotherapy for cancer at our Issels® Medical Center in Santa Barbara, relax and focus on healing with a stay at one of several charming apartments nearby.

Fully Furnished Ocean View Apartments

Issels® Medical Center is located in downtown Santa Barbara, with close proximity to shopping, restaurants and personal services. We’re pleased to offer our patients special rates on a number of exclusive, fully furnished one- and two-bedroom apartments in the area.

  • Enjoy ocean views and convenient direct access to the beach.
  • Upscale features include hardwood-style floors, ceiling fans, king-size beds and balconies and patios.
  • Each apartment has a generously sized, fully equipped gourmet kitchen.

The apartments are a perfect complement to our personally tailored immunotherapy for cancer programs. You’ll love returning from a treatment session to relax in luxurious and comfortable surroundings.

Additional Living Options

If you’re interested in other living arrangements, discounted rates are available at several suite-style hotels in the area that can accommodate any preferences. You can also choose from the variety of vacation rental apartments found throughout Santa Barbara.

Issels® Leads the Way in State-of-the-Art Immunotherapy for Cancer

At Issels®, you’re more than just a patient. Our caring and compassionate team is focused on every aspect of your healing and recovery.

Get first-hand accounts of why the Issels® difference makes us a leader in modern immunotherapy treatment. Visit our website to hear and read testimonials from patients of all ages and stages of cancer who have achieved long-term remission at Issels®.