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Clinical trials pilot program a gamechanger for regional patients
If it weren’t for clinical trials, Gippsland’s Steve Wadey says he wouldn’t be alive today.
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A series of three publications reported studies investigating the prognosis associated with melanomas.
These three studies were:
The retrospective study looking at the influence of various primary tumour characteristics in patients diagnosed with stage IV melanoma between 2003 and 2012, who had a median follow-up of five years, found that primary tumour thickness was the most significant prognostic factor in stage IV melanoma.
In the second study, the presence of a BRAF mutation in patients with primary stage I-III cutaneous melanomas did not necessarily drive more rapid tumour growth but was associated with poorer melanoma-specific survival in patients with early-stage disease. In the third study, it was found that patients presenting with regional cutaneous metastases have a much better prognosis than those with distant cutaneous metastases.
Our research focuses on understanding primary melanoma, particularly to enhance detection and prevent deaths.
If it weren’t for clinical trials, Gippsland’s Steve Wadey says he wouldn’t be alive today.
A world-class melanoma and cancer centre at The Alfred is set to revolutionise care for Victorian patients, and boost research.
Living amongst the highest rates of melanoma in the world, Australians are being urged to become more familiar with their skin and ‘be all over melanoma’ this Check for Spots Day.