Which treatment modality aims to modify the host immune response against cancer?

Biotherapy, also known as immunotherapy, focuses on enhancing or modifying the host's immune system to better recognize and combat cancer cells. This treatment approach can involve the use of monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines, and vaccines, all designed to stimulate the body’s immune response to identify and destroy cancer cells more effectively.

Unlike traditional approaches such as chemotherapy, which primarily target rapidly dividing cancer cells directly, or radiation therapy that aims to incapacitate tumor cells through localized damage, biotherapy specifically seeks to enhance the body’s own defenses. It harnesses the natural capabilities of the immune system, making it a powerful tool in oncology, particularly in situations where cancer has proven resistant to other treatments.

Surgery, while an essential intervention for tumor removal, does not influence the immune system directly in the way that biotherapy does. Instead, it focuses on physically excising tumors from the body. Thus, biotherapy stands out for its unique goal of reshaping the immune response against cancer, making it the correct choice in this context.