The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new treatment for melanoma, a form of skin cancer that about 800,000 Americans are diagnosed with each year.
Melanoma can be caused by extensive sun exposure, and is the most serious form of skin cancer. Spots appear on the skin that grow and change over time. Typically the spots are flat, brown or black moles.
The new treatment, Yervoy, is the first drug to show signs of relief for patients with Melanoma. It doesn’t cure the disease, but can help patients live longer.
“Late-stage melanoma is devastating, with very few treatment options for patients, none of which previously prolonged a patient’s life,” Richard Pazdur, MD, director of the FDA’s cancer drugs office, said in a news release.
The study details
All of the 676 patients involved in the study had late stage melanoma and had tried all other forms of treatment available to them. The study showed patients taking Yervoy lived 10 months longer. The study also highlights the side effects of the treatment, which in some cases were severe. About 13% of patients had a fatal autoimmune reaction. Other side effects include: fatigue, skin rash, diarrhea, and hormone problems.
About melanoma
According to the MayoClinc, melanoma occurs when something goes awry in the melanin-producing cells of our body. Skins cells are damaged which typically leads to an abnormal growth on your skin. If you see anything unusual, you should consult your doctor. If the growth is cause for concern the doctor will likely biopsy the growth and have it tested. If melanoma is caught early it can be treated, typically by surgically removing the melanoma. Chemotherapy and radiation are also options.
Tips to prevent melanoma
Avoid midday sun
Wear sunscreen year-round
Wear protective clothing, sunscreen isn’t always enough
Avoid tanning bed
Monitor your skin
