"We have come very close to the creation of so-called cancer vaccines and immunomodulatory drugs of a new generation," Putin announced in televised comments. He expressed optimism that these innovative therapies would soon become effective methods of individualized cancer treatment.

While not providing specific details on the types of cancer the proposed vaccines would target or the mechanisms involved, Putin's announcement reflects ongoing efforts globally to revolutionize cancer treatment. Various countries and companies are actively engaged in research and development of cancer vaccines.

Last year, the UK government collaborated with Germany-based BioNTech to launch clinical trials for personalized cancer treatments, aiming to benefit 10,000 patients by 2030. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies Moderna and Merck & Co are working on an experimental cancer vaccine that demonstrated promising results in reducing the recurrence or death from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Putin's announcement comes against the backdrop of the global fight against cancer, with existing vaccines targeting human papillomaviruses (HPV) known to cause several cancers, including cervical cancer. The World Health Organization reports six licensed HPV vaccines, along with vaccines targeting hepatitis B (HBV), which can lead to liver cancer.

While Russia achieved success in developing the Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19 during the pandemic, it faced challenges with public reluctance to vaccination domestically. The potential breakthrough in cancer vaccines adds a new dimension to Russia's contributions in the field of medical science, offering hope for more effective and targeted treatments for cancer patients worldwide.