I’ve known a few people who were diagnosed early on with melanoma. Thankfully, in each case, they were caught early enough to avoid invasive, experimental treatment. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. According to the Melanoma Research Foundation, skin cancer is the most widespread type of cancer, and melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. It can also appear in other parts of the body, but is mostly known to surface on the skin. It’s thought that melanoma is caused primarily by exposure to sunlight and UV rays, especially in the form of tanning beds and blistering sunburns.
Scientists are now creating new ways to fight melanoma, including a vaccine and a new molecule named Diprovocim. Working hand in hand, the Diprovocim actively sends cancer-fighting cells to eradicate tumors, while the vaccine prevents the return of melanoma. Lab testing on several groups of mice has seen an astonishing 100% survival rate in those who were treated with both therapies. An added bonus is that instead of causing the immune system to weaken like with chemotherapy, these treatments actually boost the immune system and help the body regain control.
Further study is needed, of course, to see how these therapies interact with other popular treatments, but the future is looking bright for those who will need these new, healthier alternatives.