Melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, claims 75% of lives in this category, as per Instituto Vencer o Câncer. Annually, it affects around 9,000 Brazilians and over 130,000 individuals worldwide. This lethal characteristic stems from melanoma’s high metastatic capacity, increasing the likelihood of spreading to lymphatic tissue and blood vessels, thus impacting other organs.
Excessive, unprotected sun exposure is a major risk factor, making everyone susceptible. Consequently, melanoma is a focus of intense research, nearing a breakthrough that could reshape its treatment history.
In London, researchers are trialing the first “personalized” messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine to combat this skin cancer type. Developed by University College London in collaboration with multiple labs, the vaccine is tailored to each patient’s DNA. During surgery, scientists extract and analyze tumor genetic material, identifying cancerous cell traits compared to healthy ones. The vaccine is then customized based on the individual’s DNA, training their immune system to recognize and produce antibodies against these targets.
The Potential Historic Impact of Skin Cancer Vaccine
Researchers leading the study believe this vaccine could mark a milestone in cancer treatment, potentially applicable to other cancers like kidney and lung.
The research is in phase 3, the most advanced stage before market release. It has passed animal tests, safety checks, and now enters human trials within clinical settings.
Apart from the London university, Moderna and Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) support the treatment. They aim to expand trials beyond the UK, Australia, and the US, recruiting patients globally, including Brazil.
Note that this vaccine won’t prevent skin cancer but treats existing cases.
Drawbacks include potentially high costs due to individualized doses. Nonetheless, doctors express optimism, citing more pros than cons in this discovery.
Clinical Trials and Patient Testimonials
Steve Young, a 52-year-old British musician, became the first recipient of the vaccine. He underwent melanoma removal from his scalp last August and expressed gratitude for participating in the clinical trial:
“I feel fortunate to be part of this clinical trial. It was a shock receiving the skin cancer diagnosis, but now, having undergone treatment, I’m eager to prevent its recurrence. This is my best chance to stop cancer,”
– Young
The international trial in the UK aims to recruit 60-70 patients across eight clinics in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Leeds. Participants must have undergone high-risk melanoma surgery in the last 12 weeks for optimal results.
Some will receive a placebo injection instead of the vaccine, with results expected in the coming months.
Doctors emphasize early cancer detection for better treatment outcomes, applicable to melanoma. Regular self-checks for common melanoma signs are crucial:
- New abnormal skin marks (moles, spots, or warts).
- Existing marks showing growth or changes in color/texture.
- Following the ABCDE rule: asymmetry, irregular borders, varied colors, larger diameter than others, and evolving characteristics (itching, bleeding, crusting).
While these changes may not always indicate cancer, consulting a doctor for review is vital if in doubt.
Source: BBC
