Ideally, dermatologists would prefer people to take precautions against excess exposure to ultraviolet light, whether that’s natural sunlight or a tanning booth. It’s especially important to protect children
New York, NY (PRWEB)
September 26, 2017
“Unfortunately, skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in this country” said Dr. Bard, “and it will affect nearly 20% of Americans at some point during their lifetime which is why I am always interested to read the latest research into this disease.”
Australian researchers think it is possible that using a combination of new treatments could halt the progression of melanoma, preventing it from spreading to other organs. The results from two international drug trials look promising as they have been successful in preventing the disease from spreading in patients diagnosed with Stage III cancer and whose tumors had been surgically removed. Before these clinical trials, patients with Stage III cancer were at high risk of the disease potentially becoming fatal. Ultimately the researchers hope that melanoma will become a chronic illness rather than a terminal condition. During the two 12-month trials, patients were treated with either immunotherapy based treatments or with targeted therapies. Both proved to be successful in preventing the disease from spreading.
“Any new strategies for treating melanoma are always welcome” commented Dr. Bard. “One common misconception is that skin cancer only affects people with lighter skins and who are exposed to the sun for too long. While this population is at higher risk, the highest rates of skin cancer are found in Caucasian men over the age of 50.”
Melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer and dermatologists recommend having any unusual mole, discoloration or bump examined, especially if it changes its shape, size or texture, or begins to bleed. A dermatologist can carry out a visual examination to assess if any treatment is required. One of the problems with melanoma is that it’s a cancer that can spread to nearby organs and lymph nodes whereas basal cell and…