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Misinformation, hesitancy could blunt impact of new cancer vaccines
Researchers say misinformation and vaccine skepticism could slow adoption of personalized mRNA cancer shots despite promising trial results and strong immune responses.
New mRNA cancer vaccines offer significant hope for patients, yet medical experts warn that rising vaccine hesitancy and misinformation could severely blunt their adoption.
Researchers cite the HPV vaccine as a cautionary tale, noting that decades of misinformation have caused vaccination rates for teenagers to stagnate for four years.
Lawmakers in 34 states introduced 209 bills this year to limit vaccine access or sow safety doubts, while Idaho Republicans proposed a two-year moratorium on mRNA immunizations.
Questioning vaccine safety, Republican President Donald Trump and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy have amplified skepticism and proposed cutting funding for vaccine research.
Cancer survivor Chase Johnson, now 37, credits vaccination for peace of mind, though experts emphasize that restoring trust in public health remains critical for new treatments.