A team of experts at Yale University analyzed the potential of mRNA vaccines in terms of treatment and economic value in the US. Their findings, published in september 2025, indicate that these vaccines could prevent nearly 50,000 cancer deaths, generating an estimated economic value of up to 75 billion USD.
To achieve these results, the researchers analyzed 32 ongoing mRNA cancer vaccine trials in the US. From these, they selected 11 of the most promising trials. The research team estimated that if these vaccines prove effective and are administered to all eligible patients within three years, patients could experience significantly extended lifespans.
Subsequently, the research team converted these extended years of life into economic value, based on the metric "value of a life year"—the amount society is willing to pay for an additional year of life. They utilized standards applied by the US Department of Health and Human Services.
The results suggest potential benefits could reach 75 billion USD annually. However, this figure might be slightly high, as not all vaccines will receive approval. Oliver Watson of Imperial College London noted that he previously used a similar calculation method to estimate that Covid-19 vaccines provided global benefits ranging from 5 trillion to 38 trillion USD.
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Illustration of cancer vaccine trials. *Photo: Vecteezy*
Nevertheless, if calculated for multiple patient groups over many years and considering long-term benefits, the actual figure would undoubtedly be much higher. Watson suggested that these estimated savings are, in fact, still an underestimate of the true value.
However, in august 2025, the US cut 500 million USD from its vaccine development budget. This reduction could jeopardize the realization of potential benefits from mRNA cancer vaccines.
Cancer vaccines are designed to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. There are two main types: preventative vaccines, which target cancer-causing viruses, and therapeutic vaccines, which are personalized for each patient. The effectiveness of these vaccines has been demonstrated in some trials. Despite numerous challenges, including costs, clinical trials, and regulatory approval, cancer vaccines are considered a major breakthrough in modern medicine.
Currently, many countries and companies are leading research in cancer vaccines. Notable examples include Russia, the US (BioNTech, Moderna), and international collaborations such as VNVC and RDIF. Key research directions focus on mRNA technology and personalized vaccines, with the expectation of bringing cancer vaccines into clinical use within a few years.
Van Ha (According to NewScientist)
