t is a fact that melanoma is the deadliest
of skin cancers. Furthermore, the rate of this type of skin cancer has
doubled over the course of the last two decades. Another disturbing fact
is that it is becoming ever more common in young adults and in children
as well. In this situation, many research institutes and treatment
centres carry out studies which are intended to identify the precise
causes of this condition and to produce a cure. Learn more about some of
their latest findings.
Different Causes
It is known that
melanoma typically occurs in skin cells which have been damaged by UV
rays. However, the precise way in which ultraviolet light works to cause
cellular damage is not known. In recent times, researchers have made
great progress in this field. The latest studies show that the UV rays
work to cause cellular damage leading to this type of skin cancer in two
different ways.
One of the ways in which UV rays can cause this
condition is through damage of skin cells during childhood leading to
sunburn. Even though the tumour develops many years later, it is this
initial change in the cellular DNA which has triggered it. The other way
in which the condition can be caused is through regular exposure to UV
radiation during adulthood. This can still lead to tumour formation even
without the presence of sunburn.
Advanced Combination Treatment
A
recent study which involved 500 melanoma patients from 20 different
countries has revealed that combining two separate drugs for the
treatment of this condition can produce more effective results. The two
medications attacked the tumours in two different ways. The combined
therapy helped to extend the period during which the growth of the
tumours was inhibited from 6 to 9 months and even 10 months in some
cases. In 10% of the patients, the existing tumours were completely
eliminated.
Melanoma Vaccine Development
The vaccine is
intended to be used for the treatment of this type of skin cancer and
not for its prevention. Still, it works in the same way as ordinary
vaccines designed to prevent virus infections. It contains weakened
melanoma cells or specific compounds which are present in such sells.
They are purposefully injected in the body in order to trigger an immune
response. If this happens, the body's immune system will work to
destroy the abnormal cells. Previously made vaccines have not been
greatly effective, but the scientists are working on making more
advanced ones.
Hopefully, melanoma research will produce a cure for this condition soon.
Use an effective method for the early detection of Melanoma
which will help you to protect yourself and your family from this
dangerous condition. Take the first step towards more effective
prevention now.
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