Latest news with #MelanomaAwarenessMonth
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Intermountain Health launches cancer treatment program for patients with advanced melanoma skin cancer
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (ABC4 Utah) – May is Melanoma Awareness Month and Intermountain Health is unveiling an exciting new treatment program for Utahns with advanced melanoma cancer – the first time local patients have been treated with this advanced technology and new therapy in the Beehive State. Thanks to this new cutting-edge personalized cancer treatment program, Utahns who have advanced melanoma cancer no longer have to leave the state to get a groundbreaking new treatment that is showing promise for patients with the deadliest type of skin cancer. Intermountain Health has launched a new program to provide tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy to treat patients with a type of skin cancer called unresectable or metastatic melanoma that cannot be removed surgically or has spread to other parts of the body. It is the first time this therapy has been used to treat patients in Utah. This novel therapy works by using special immune cells, called lymphocytes, which are taken from the tumor itself. These cells are then multiplied in a lab and put back into the patient's body to help fight the cancer. As part of the treatment process, doctors use AMTAGVI, the first and only FDA-approved prescription medication for the treatment of advanced melanoma that has not responded to standard therapies. AMTAGVI activates the patient's own immune system to target and destroy cancer cells and represents a different approach compared to other immunotherapies. Instead of broadly stimulating the immune system, it harnesses a patient's own tumor-specific T cells to directly target and destroy cancer cells. Intermountain Health cancer experts say the groundbreaking treatment marks a significant advancement in the fight against advanced melanoma, offering a new option for patients with limited treatment alternatives. 'We're excited to offer this advanced therapy and the hope it provides for improved outcomes for patients who have not responded to standard therapies,' said Tawnya Bowles, MD, a surgical oncologist at Intermountain Health. 'The promise for patients is that this treatment will work against their advanced melanoma when other treatments have failed. These patients do not have as many treatment options once their tumor has progressed on standard treatments. This therapy offers new hope for these patients.' TIL therapy has been used for decades, but AMTAGVI allows the treatment to extend beyond select treatment centers by using a protocol that lets a patient's tumor T cells grow at centralized facilities in the United States. Previously, only limited academic facilities with lab facilities could grow and expand the T cells. For Utahns, having the therapy program available locally is a major advancement. Not only does Utah have the highest incidence of melanoma in the nation, but until now, Utahns needing TIL therapy had to travel out of state for their care. 'Each year we see Utah patients who need this next step of treatment for advanced melanoma, and these patients previously had to leave the state and incur the expense of travel and the increased stress of being away from home,' said Caroline Nebhan, MD, PhD, Intermountain Health medical oncologist. 'We're thrilled to be able to offer this advanced treatment close to home with our Intermountain Health oncology team.' Patients in the new Intermountain treatment program are supported by a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians, including oncology experts and patient navigators, who work closely with patients throughout their treatment. The therapy involves surgically removing a sample of the patient's tumor, from which tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are extracted. These TILs, which are immune cells capable of recognizing and attacking cancer cells, are then sent to a specialized manufacturing facility where they are expanded and multiplied into billions of cells. Once the manufacturing process is complete (approximately 34 days), the patient undergoes a short course of lymphodepleting chemotherapy to prepare their body for the infusion of the expanded TILs. Following the AMTAGVI infusion, patients may receive several doses of interleukin-2 (IL-2) to further stimulate the activity and growth of the infused T cells. Patients are cared for in the hospital for a period to monitor for potential side effects. Research results of the medication were promising. Clinical trial data supporting FDA approval of AMTAGVI demonstrated promising response rates and, in many cases, prolonged outcomes in patients with advanced melanoma, suggesting the potential for long-term control of the disease. 'We're committed to providing our patients with access to the most advanced and innovative cancer treatments,' said Dr. Bowles. 'The addition of AMTAGVI to our comprehensive oncology program underscores this commitment and offers new hope for patients battling advanced melanoma.' To learn more about cancer care at Intermountain Health, go to Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Sponsored by Intermountain Health. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The Citizen
27-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Bedfordview survivor shares skin cancer warning
According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), South Africans are at a higher risk of skin cancer. For over three decades, 83-year-old Frank Payne has called Bedfordview home. However, in the last four years, his life has been marked by an unexpected health battle: skin cancer. Payne is now using his journey to shed light and educate others on the dangers of sun exposure. ALSO READ: Campaign urges full support for child cancer survivors 'I was always out in the sun, playing water polo and golf, all without a cap. 'It didn't seem like a big deal back then,' he explained. Little did he know that that time in the sun would eventually catch up with him. Payne was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, a common but potentially dangerous type of skin cancer caused by prolonged sun exposure. 'It's basically sun damage. 'It starts as a crusty lesion, like a pimple or dry patch on exposed skin.' Basal cell carcinoma is just one of several types of skin cancer, including melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. While melanoma is the deadliest, all skin cancers pose a threat if not detected and treated early. His journey has involved multiple surgeries, some requiring skin grafts to remove cancerous lesions from his scalp, nose, ear, and even under his eye. 'The ones on my head were the worst. 'Now they catch them earlier.' His treatment was conducted by a team including a dermatologist and a plastic surgeon, who work together to biopsy and remove cancerous spots while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. ALSO READ: World Cancer Day on February 4 gets new campaign 'Fortunately, my skin heals well. I experienced very little pain following surgery. I've had a shoulder replacement, and even then, I didn't need painkillers,' he said. 'The damage was done when I was young. It's not about what you're doing now; it's about what you did back then,' he said. 'I think the biggest message is prevention. 'Our children should be wearing hats. 'In Australia, they can't even go outside during school without one,' he warned. Though his journey has been filled with hospital visits, biopsies, and surgeries, he credits his sense of humour, family and his dogs for keeping his spirits high. Now in his eighties, he has become a living reminder of the importance of early detection and sun safety. 'If something looks suspicious, a spot that doesn't heal, something crusty or new, go get it checked. Don't wait.' Cansa explained that while May marks the end of summer for South Africans with winter fast approaching, it's also Melanoma Awareness Month, reminding us to continue to be sunsmart throughout the year, no matter the weather conditions. 'South Africa could become the skin cancer capital of the world,' said general medical practitioner Dr Donny Fick, who raised awareness for skin cancer when he took part in the 2024 Two Oceans run half marathon in April this year. 'I used the event to spotlight skin cancer because South Africa has high running participant numbers, with an increasing number of people having taken up the sport since COVID-19.' Fick said, while he is not saying there is a connection between more runners and a higher occurrence of skin cancer, he says runners focus on the proper shoes and nutrition, but not so much on protecting themselves from the sun. 'Not enough runners use Sunscreen, and very few wear hats. 'Using the Two Oceans as a platform was an attempt to educate the runners and the rest of the population about the harmful effects of the sun.' Figures prove that South Africans are at a higher risk of skin cancer. Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, is one of the top 10 cancers in the country among men and women, according to the National Cancer Registry, 2023. ALSO READ: Breast cancer and mental health in the spotlight at Edenvale chambers The May melanoma awareness drive focuses on cancer risk reduction and early detection, which applies to most types of cancer. It means adjusting lifestyle choices if necessary to lower the risk of cancer and to keep a watchful eye for warning signs that need to be checked by a medical professional. Melanomas develop in the cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Melanomas can develop on any skin colour and anywhere on the body, including the head, neck, eyes, under the fingernails, the genitals and the soles of the feet or palms of the hands. They can be similar in colour to a mole, have no colour at all or be slightly red. While melanomas most often develop in areas exposed to the sun, such as the back, legs, arms, and face, they can also occur in areas that don't receive much sun exposure and can show up inside the body. All ethnic and racial groups are susceptible to melanoma; however, the typical patient has a fair complexion and a tendency to burn in the sun, even after a brief exposure to sunlight. Although there is no conclusive evidence that exposure to sunlight causes melanoma, lesions are most commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the body. ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni Population-Based Cancer Registry sheds light on cancer in the region Other risk factors include the occurrence of a previous melanoma in the patient and a close family member, such as a parent or a sibling. According to Lorraine Govender, Cansa national manager of health programmes, 'We advocate checking your spots. It's a highly presentable cancer; you can easily detect it on your skin.' Cansa also advises companies whose employees work outside in the sun, such as those in the agricultural or building industries, to ensure they have adequate protection against the sun. Look out for sunscreens, clothing, hats, and summer accessories that bear the Cansa Seal of Recognition. 'Even driving, you need to protect yourself,' she explained. 'Certain UV rays penetrate windows.' She added that they also penetrate clouds, so you must wear sunscreen on overcast days. Ficks said that the sooner people start using sunscreen, the better. 'Protecting yourself from the sun slows down the ageing process,' he said. Govender agreed, stating, 'Sunscreen should be a mandatory part of any beauty regime for both men and women. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 20 or higher, according to skin type. 'Men can be really bad at remembering to use sunscreen,' said Fick. Part of his awareness campaign is to emphasise that men also need sun protection. 'Just do it,' he said, 'You will thank me later.' ALSO READ: Celebrate October as the Breast Cancer Awareness Month In South Africa, the risk of melanoma seems to be increasing in people under 40, especially women. Signs and symptoms of melanoma To help identify characteristics of unusual moles that may indicate melanomas or other skin cancers, think of the letters A, B, C, D and E: • Asymmetry: Halves might not match when you draw a line through the mole. • Border irregularities: Edges may be scalloped or notched. • Colour variations: Different shades or unconventional colours may appear. • Diameter: Moles that are wider than a pencil eraser. • Evolving characteristics: Encompasses any change in size, shape, colour, elevation, or new symptoms like bleeding or itching. Cancerous (malignant) moles vary in appearance, with some showing all the changes listed above and others having only one or two unusual characteristics. ALSO READ: CHOC calls for support for children living with cancer The first sign of melanoma is usually a new spot or an existing mole or freckle that changes in appearance. Some changes can include growing in size or evolving; edges that are irregular rather than smooth and even; a range of colours such as brown, black, blue, red, white or light grey and moles becoming itchy or bleeding. Any irregularities should immediately be reported to a doctor or dermatologist. It is a good idea to arrange an annual skin examination with a dermatologist. Bookings for screening may be made at your nearest Cansa Care Centre. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
AMERICAN SKIN ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES MELANOMA AWARENESS MONTH
NEW YORK, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As a part of a robust national campaign, American Skin Association (ASA) is pleased to join with all those supporting skin health to celebrate Melanoma Awareness Month this May. For almost forty years, ASA's mission has been to advance research into skin disorders and promote skin health through education and public awareness of how to maintain healthy skin. As the weather heats up and UV exposure increases, it is more important than ever to take action to protect yourself from melanoma and other skin cancers. The rate of melanoma has been rising for the past 30 years. The number of cases of melanoma worldwide is increasing faster than any other malignancy. It now ranks as the fifth most common cancer in men and in women. Each hour, someone dies from melanoma. Although it is most commonly found in Caucasian males over age 50, it can occur at any age and on any skin tone. About one in 50 people in the United States will develop melanoma in their lifetime. This campaign stresses the importance of sun safety, reminding everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the nation, with almost 5.5 million cases diagnosed in Americans each year — more than breast, colon, lung, and prostate cancers combined. In fact, 1 out of every 5 Americans will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in their lifetime. "Every Melanoma Awareness Month, we are reminded how important it is to prioritize skin health and sun safety to protect against the devastating impacts of cancer," says ASA Chairman Howard P. Milstein. "We are proud to join other esteemed organizations this month to get this life-saving message front and center." Skin cancer is highly preventable. Over 90% of all skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or indoor tanning devices. Americans can dramatically reduce their risk of skin cancer by: Avoiding sunburns and tanning — no tan is a safe tan, Generously applying sunscreen (and remembering to reapply every two hours), Wearing sun-protective clothing, Seeking shade during peak times of the day (typically 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.), and Using extra caution near water, snow, and sand. ABOUT AMERICAN SKIN ASSOCIATION A unique collaboration of patients, families, advocates, physicians and scientists, ASA has evolved over nearly four decades as a leading force in efforts to defeat melanoma, skin cancer and other skin diseases. Established as a 501(c)(3) organization to serve the now more than 100 million Americans — one-third of the U.S. population — afflicted with skin disorders, the organization's mission remains to: advance research, champion skin health — particularly among children, and drive public awareness about skin disease. For more information, visit American Skin Association has earned Candid's 2025 Platinum Seal of Transparency and the Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE American Skin Association Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
RTÉ News
11-05-2025
- Health
- RTÉ News
Sunscreen dispensers installed in Roscommon GAA ground
Sunscreen dispensers have been donated to two GAA grounds in Co Roscommon to help raise awareness around skin cancer prevention. The initiative by Roscommon University Hospital, which is part of the Saolta Hospital Group, aims to encourage regular sunscreen use among players, particularly during the summer months when UV exposure is at its highest. "Approximately 1,290 people are diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer each year in Ireland," said Bernie Finneran, Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Skin Cancer at RUH. "It is very important that everyone uses a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen-SPF 30+ for adults and SPF 50+ for children that has a high UVA protection and is water resistant," she said. "Each dispenser includes a UV index display to provide real-time information about UV radiation levels. "In Ireland, the UV index is usually 3 or higher from April to September, even when it's cloudy and therefore daily sun protection is essential, regardless of the weather," she added. The sunscreen dispensers have been installed in the dressing rooms at both Roscommon Gaels' club ground and Dr Hyde Park, with the goal of making sun safety a routine part of outdoor sports and activity. "We in Roscommon GAA are delighted to assist in raising awareness of skin cancer prevention to coincide with Melanoma Awareness Month," said Brian Carroll, Chairperson, Roscommon GAA. "I would encourage all players in all our clubs to wear sunscreen at all times but especially during the summer months when UV is at its highest in our country," he added.
Irish Independent
09-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
Sunscreen dispensers placed in dressing rooms at Hyde Park to increase awareness around skin cancer
Sligo Champion Today at 11:08 To coincide with Melanoma Awareness Month, which runs throughout May, Roscommon University Hospital has donated sunscreen dispensers to Roscommon GAA – Roscommon Gaels and Dr Hyde Park to help raise awareness around skin cancer prevention. The initiative aims to encourage regular sunscreen use among players, particularly during the summer months when UV exposure is at its highest. Bernie Finneran, Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Skin Cancer at Roscommon University Hospital, highlighted the importance of sun protection: 'Approximately 1,290 people are diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer each year in Ireland. It is very important that everyone uses a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen-SPF 30+ for adults and SPF 50+ for children that has a high UVA protection and is water resistant.' Follow Independent Roscommon on Facebook 'Each dispenser includes a UV index display to provide real-time information about UV radiation levels. 'In Ireland, the UV index is usually 3 or higher from April to September, even when it's cloudy and therefore daily sun protection is essential, regardless of the weather,' added Bernie. The sunscreen dispensers have been installed in the dressing rooms at both Roscommon Gaels and Dr Hyde Park, with the goal of making sun safety a routine part of outdoor sports and community activity. This initiative reflects Roscommon University Hospital's ongoing commitment to health promotion and community well-being. Brian Carroll, Chairperson, Roscommon GAA stated, 'We in Roscommon GAA are delighted to assist in raising awareness of skin cancer prevention to coincide with Melanoma Awareness Month. I would encourage all players in all our clubs to wear sunscreen at all times but especially during the summer months when UV is at its highest in our country.'
