Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, and its incidence continues to rise in Spain. This pathology, which already causes 1,000 deaths a year in Spain, is one of those that are addressed these days in the 52nd Congress of the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AEDV) that is celebrated in Valencia between May 7 and 10.
Among the new treatments that are shared, the use of immunotherapy, which enhances the patient’s immune system so that it can identify and eliminate cancer cells.
Immunotherapy for advanced tumors
The head of the Dermatology Service of the Valencian Institute of Oncology Foundation (IVO), Onofre Sanmartín, said that the best strategy against melanoma is its early diagnosis and surgical treatment. But in cases where it is not possible, immunotherapy is the most promising option.
“One of the main advances in the treatment of this pathology in recent years is the use of immunotherapy as neoadjuvant, that is, using it in tumors that are in advanced state and cannot be removed,” said Sanmartín.
Thus, they awaken ‘the patient’s immune system to attack the tumor until it is suitable for surgically treated. According to the dermatologist, progress has also been made in the use of this therapy to prevent a tumor from coming out after treatment.
The best strategy: prevention
The specialist also stressed that the most effective strategy against melanoma is prevention. “It is important to avoid solar burns and excessive exposure to the sun, especially in children and young people, especially during the central hours of the day,” said Sanmartín.
Thus, he explained that although there are genetic factors that predispose some people to suffer this type of cancer, much of the damage that leads to this ailment occurs due to excessive exposure to the sun. Therefore, he also insists on the use of proper clothing, sunglasses, photoprotective cream and avoiding tan cabins.
To help specialists investigate the best way to prevent and treat a melanoma, the AEDV has a national melanoma registry that collects clinical data on this nationwide disease to analyze the characteristics of the ailment in the country, monitor the evolution of patients and assess the effectiveness and safety of treatments. Thus, it is intended to better characterize the risk factors of this disease, both individuals and those related to health care.
In addition, from the AEDV they point out that the early detection of melanoma is crucial to improve survival and reduce the morbidity associated with its treatment. Therefore, they call regular skin self -exploration and consult with a specialist in case of any suspicious or changing injury.
Source: Sinc
VTV/DR/SB
