THE IMPORTANCE OF USING IMMUNOTHERAPY IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING ONCOLOGICAL TREATMENT IN BRAZIL

Abstract

Immunotherapy has been established as one of the most innovative strategies in oncological treatment, providing more effective and lasting therapeutic responses by stimulating the immune system to fight tumor cells. This article discusses the importance of this therapeutic modality in Brazil, highlighting its clinical benefits, implementation challenges, and future perspectives. The integrative review included 15 studies published between 2019 and 2024, covering different methodologies, from narrative reviews to economic analyses and clinical studies. The results indicate that immunotherapy is particularly effective in neoplasms such as non-small cell lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and triple-negative breast cancer, with significant improvements in overall survival and tumor response. However, its high cost represents a challenge for its widespread adoption in the Unified Health System (SUS), requiring strategies that enable its sustainable incorporation. Additionally, the response to immunotherapy varies among patients, making the identification of predictive biomarkers essential for optimizing its indication. Immunomediated adverse effects, such as pneumonitis and colitis, also require strict monitoring. The study concludes that, despite economic and regulatory barriers, immunotherapy represents a paradigm shift in oncology, requiring public policies and investments to ensure its accessibility and expansion in Brazil.