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What is CIMAvax-EGF®?

CIMAvax-EGF® is a therapeutic lung cancer vaccine developed by Cuba's Center of Molecular Immunology. It works by inducing the immune system to produce antibodies against Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), depriving cancer cells of a growth signal they need to proliferate. It is used as maintenance therapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

Is CIMAvax-EGF® FDA-approved?

CIMAvax-EGF® is registered in Cuba and several other countries. It has completed Phase III clinical trials and is undergoing international clinical trials, including in the United States through a partnership with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Patients should consult their oncologist about regulatory status in their country.

How long does lung cancer treatment take in Cuba?

The initial induction phase typically requires 4–6 weeks of in-hospital care in Cuba, followed by maintenance doses that may continue for months or years. Your medical team provides a personalized timeline based on your immune response and clinical status.

Can CIMAvax-EGF® replace chemotherapy?

No, CIMAvax-EGF® is not a replacement for first-line treatment. It is used as maintenance therapy after patients have completed standard first-line treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy) and achieved stable disease or response.

What documents do I need to submit for eligibility review?

You'll need your histopathology/biopsy report confirming NSCLC, recent CT or PET imaging, tumor marker blood tests, oncologist's treatment summary, current medications, and a recent general blood panel. Our medical team reviews these to determine eligibility and build your treatment plan.

Lung Cancer — Full GuideOncology

Lung Cancer Symptoms and Early Detection

Early-stage lung cancer often produces no symptoms, which is why many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. When symptoms do appear, they may include a persistent cough that worsens over time, coughing up blood (hemoptysis), chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and recurring respiratory infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

Risk factors for lung cancer include smoking (responsible for approximately 85% of cases), exposure to secondhand smoke, occupational exposures (asbestos, radon, uranium), air pollution, and family history. Screening with low-dose CT scans is recommended for high-risk individuals to enable early detection.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with lung cancer, it's important to explore all treatment options. Cuba's immunotherapy vaccines may be appropriate as maintenance therapy after completing first-line treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

Previous SectionLung Cancer and Cuba's Immunotherapy Approach Next Section Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Staging

All Sections — Lung Cancer

1.Lung Cancer and Cuba's Immunotherapy Approach 2.Lung Cancer Symptoms and Early Detection 3.Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Staging 4.CIMAvax-EGF® and VAXIRA®: Cuban Lung Cancer Vaccines 5.Eligibility for Cuban Lung Cancer Immunotherapy 6.Travel and Treatment Costs for Lung Cancer Patients

Medically Reviewed

Dr. Marta Rodríguez

MD, Oncology — CIM Havana

Last reviewed: July 10, 2026

Medical References

[1]Rodríguez PC et al. CIMAvax-EGF: A therapeutic vaccine for non-small cell lung cancer. Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy.
[2]Cuba's Center of Molecular Immunology (CIM). CIMAvax-EGF® and VAXIRA® Clinical Documentation.
[3]World Health Organization. Cancer Fact Sheets: Lung Cancer. GLOBOCAN 2022.

This content has been medically reviewed by qualified physicians and follows SMC Salud's editorial policy for health information. Medical content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.

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