Cancer Care
Oncology & Immunotherapy
Pioneering Cuban cancer immunotherapies recognized internationally
Cuba's Center of Molecular Immunology (CIM) has developed groundbreaking therapeutic cancer vaccines that stimulate the immune system to target specific tumor antigens. These innovative treatments represent a unique approach to oncology available exclusively through Cuba's medical system.
Expected Duration
Several weeks in Cuba, followed by long-term maintenance therapy.
- 1
Arrival & oncology evaluation
Timeframe: 3–5 daysComprehensive review of imaging, biopsy, tumor markers, and prior treatments to confirm eligibility and design the immunotherapy plan.
- 2
Induction phase
Timeframe: 2–4 weeksInitial in-hospital doses of CIMAvax-EGF or Vaxira with medical monitoring and supportive care in Havana.
- 3
Maintenance therapy
Timeframe: Months to yearsOngoing maintenance doses on an outpatient basis, often continued at home or during return visits, with periodic restaging.
Preparation
Gather medical records
Collect pathology reports, recent CT/MRI/PET imaging, tumor-marker results, and a summary of all prior treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery).
Confirm staging & eligibility
Our oncology team reviews your records to confirm the cancer type, stage, and suitability for CIMAvax-EGF, Vaxira, or CIMAher.
Optimize general health
Ensure good nutritional status, glycemic control, and management of any infections before traveling for induction.
Arrange travel & companion
Plan your medical visa, flights, accommodation, and an accompanying companion for the induction stay.
Recovery
Monitor injection-site reactions
Mild redness or swelling at the injection site is common; report any persistent or unusual reactions to your care team.
Attend scheduled follow-ups
Keep all restaging and maintenance appointments so your team can track tumor response and adjust therapy.
Maintain nutrition & energy
Follow dietary guidance and stay active within tolerance to support immune function and quality of life.
Continue maintenance & coordinate home care
Adhere to the maintenance schedule and share your Cuban medical report with your home-country oncologist for coordinated follow-up.
Why International Patients Choose Our Facilities
World-class Cuban institutions, pioneering biotechnology, and complete concierge care — the reasons patients from 40+ countries trust SMC Salud with their treatment.
Treating Facilities
Center of Molecular Immunology (CIM)
Havana · Cancer Immunotherapy & Biotechnology
A leading biotechnology research and treatment center developing Cuba's cancer immunotherapeutics including CIMAvax-EGF and Vaxira.
The SMC Salud Advantage
Multilingual Patient Coordinators
Native-language coordinators in Arabic, Turkish, French, German, English, and more guide you through every step of your medical journey.
24/7 Concierge Support
Visa processing, airport reception, accommodation, interpreters, and round-the-clock coordination — every detail handled from inquiry to return home.
Pioneering Cuban Biotechnology
Access unique therapies developed by Cuba's leading research institutions — CIMAvax-EGF, Heberprot-P, Melagenin Plus — available only through Cuba's medical system.
Proven International Track Record
Decades of medical excellence with patients treated from over 40 countries, backed by WHO-recognized research institutions and experienced specialists.
Integrated Treatment & Recovery
Surgery, therapy, and rehabilitation delivered in one coordinated program by a single medical team — the Cuban model that achieves strong functional outcomes.
Cultural & Dietary Accommodation
Prayer rooms, halal and special-diet meals, and culturally aware care that honors your faith, customs, and family throughout your stay in Cuba.
Eligibility Assessment
Review the requirements below to understand what's needed for your treatment in Cuba. Check off each item as you prepare.
Treatment-specific eligibility
Eligibility is determined through medical review of the patient's diagnosis, staging, prior treatments, and overall health status. These therapies are typically indicated for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (CIMAvax-EGF, Vaxira) or head and neck cancers (CIMAher) following standard first-line treatment. Each case is evaluated individually by our oncology team.
Medical Documentation
Health Requirements
Travel & Logistics
Check off items as you prepare — a CTA will appear when all are reviewed.
Real Stories from Our Patients
Read firsthand accounts from international patients who completed their medical journeys with us.
“From the airport reception to my final consultation, every detail was arranged with precision and genuine warmth. The CIMAvax treatment opened a new chapter in my fight against lung cancer.”
Marie-Claire D.
France
CIMAvax-EGF Immunotherapy“The neurological restoration program at CIREN gave me hope when doctors in three other countries said nothing more could be done. After six weeks in Havana, my mobility improved significantly.”
Ahmed K.
United Arab Emirates
Neurological RestorationFrequently Asked Questions
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Direct answers to the questions international patients ask most about this treatment in Cuba.
Who is eligible for CIMAvax-EGF?
CIMAvax-EGF is typically indicated for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have completed first-line treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery). Eligibility is determined by Cuba's oncology team through medical review of the patient's diagnosis, staging, pathology reports, imaging, and prior treatments. Each case is evaluated individually.
How much does CIMAvax-EGF treatment cost in Cuba?
Costs vary based on the specific vaccine, induction phase duration, diagnostic needs, and individual treatment plan. Because each program is personalized following medical review, SMC Salud provides a detailed cost breakdown as part of the treatment proposal. Submit a consultation request with your medical records to receive a personalized estimate.
What currency can I pay in?
International bank transfers should be in Euros, British Pounds, or Canadian Dollars. USD transfers are not accepted. The online payment gateway accepts Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, and American Express. Cash is not accepted.
How much does breast cancer treatment cost in Cuba?
Costs vary widely based on cancer stage, treatment type (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or combination), duration, and whether experimental immunotherapy is included. SMC Salud provides a detailed cost breakdown as part of the personalized treatment proposal. Submit your medical records for review to receive an individualized estimate.
How does CIMAher target prostate cancer?
CIMAher targets the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), which is expressed in many prostate cancers, particularly aggressive and castration-resistant forms. By blocking EGFR signaling, it may disrupt the alternative growth pathways that prostate cancer uses to continue growing despite hormonal therapy. This approach is still being studied in clinical trials.
How much does prostate cancer treatment cost in Cuba?
Costs vary based on cancer stage, treatment type (surgery, radiation, hormonal, chemotherapy), duration, and whether experimental immunotherapy is available. SMC Salud provides a detailed cost breakdown as part of the personalized treatment proposal. Submit your medical records for review to receive an individualized estimate.
Explore in-depth guides on this treatment:
CIMAvax-EGF: Cuba's Lung Cancer Vaccine ExplainedSpecialists & Medical Centers
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The team that receives your request
You access our services through the Coordination and Processing Center, where a specialist immediately responds to your request and assesses whether you require the service — and you can also access an online consultation prior to your trip.
Iliana Reyes Álvarez
Head of the Coordination and Processing Center
Doctor in Medicine, First Degree Specialist in Comprehensive General Medicine. Master in Primary Health Care. Certified in Foreign Trade.
Osvaldo Héctor Ardisana
Commercial Specialist, International Medical Services
Doctor in Medicine. First Degree Specialist in Comprehensive General Medicine. Master in Marketing and Social Communication. Certified in Foreign Trade.
Natalia Hijuelos Aleexeva
Commercial Specialist, International Medical Services
Doctor in Medicine. First Degree Specialist in Comprehensive General Medicine. Certified in Nutrition and Foreign Trade.
Julio César González Palomino
Commercial Specialist, International Medical Services
Doctor in Medicine, First Degree Specialist in Comprehensive General Medicine. Master in Medical Emergencies.
Tatiana Solano López
Commercial Specialist, International Medical Services
Doctor of Medicine. First-Degree Specialist in Psychiatry. Certified in Medical Emergencies and Urgent Care. Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Tania Bárbara Vázquez García
Commercial Specialist, International Medical Services
Bachelor's Degree in German Language and Scientific-Technical Information. Certified in Technical Information Processes, Foreign Trade, Foreign Investment, and International Cooperation.
We are here to help you with personalized, safe and high-quality medical solutions.
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Submit a consultation request and our medical team will review your case within 24–48 hours.
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