US: This is really good news for patients of Melanoma. After 13 years, the new drug, ipilimumab, has been approved by US Food AND Drug Administration.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. If the cancer is identified at an early stage, it can be cured easily. But if it grows, treatment becomes really difficult. In late-stage, melanoma becomes nothing but a ‘disaster’ for patients.

Though the exact reasons for melanoma are still unknown, experts opine ultraviolet radiations from sun as one of the major causes for the disease.

Ipilimumab, the drug, aims to stop the growth of cancer cells by stimulating immune system. It will make immune system to recognize and attack these cells.

According to Dr.Douglas from American society of Clinical Oncology, the added advantage of the drug is its less side-effect. However, he warns that there can be some unusual infections in rare cases.

Turnham, the executive director of Melanoma Research Foundation says, “Not only does this drug offer new hope for patients, but the approval of this drug highlights the importance for patients to be aware of their treatment options, because the landscape for melanoma is changing quickly.

Patients who are aware of the new treatments coming out in their field have the best chance of surviving. It’s just another example of how cancer patients need to take better control of their cancer care.”