GMRF Clinical Trials Unit coordinating study with positive primary results
Here in the sunshine state we’re no strangers to skin cancer. Queensland Health notes more than 3,600 people are diagnosed with melanoma in Queensland each year.
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer characterised by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) located in the skin. Metastatic melanoma is the deadliest form of the disease and happens when cancer spreads past the surface of the skin to other organs.
Although new treatments have been developed and are available, there are still people who don’t respond or tolerate the current treatments. It’s critical to keep developing and trialing new ways to treat people in our community living with melanoma.
The GMRF Clinical Trials Unit has been working with Associate Professor Victoria Atkinson, Ramsay Pharmacy and the Cyril Gilbert Cancer Centre to coordinate a trial to help people with unresectable melanoma (when the cancer can’t be cut out), sponsored by Bristol Meyers Squibb (BMS).
BMS recently released a statement announcing the primary results of the study and confirmed that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will review this novel treatment as a priority for patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma.
While waiting for the review, BMS is providing access to this new treatment through a Compassionate Access Program. Doctors can apply to use the treatment if they have a patient who may potentially benefit from the treatment and meets the criteria.
GMRF CTU is proud to be part of this trial which is showing positive results for some participants. While clinical trials are one way to provide an alternative for people with limited options, sadly they cannot guarantee positive results for everyone.
GMRF Clinical Trials Unit have studies open in a range of disease indications. See our currently recruiting studies