As we transition into fall, I wanted to take a moment to share some highlights from this busy spring and summer, particularly my experience at the European Society for Medical Oncology’s (ESMO) annual meeting in beautiful Barcelona.

One of the key themes at ESMO this year was a status check on immunotherapies, marking a decade since the groundbreaking approval of combination nivolumab (Opdivo) plus ipilimumab (Yervoy) and pembrolizumab (Keytruda) alone. The data presented was a powerful reminder of the impact these therapies have had on patients with metastatic melanoma. Remarkably, we learned that approximately 43% of patients treated with combination nivolumab plus ipilimumab and 34% of patients treated with pembrolizumab achieved a sustained, long-term survival, a testament to the advancements we’ve made in this field. However, it was equally clear that there is still much work to be done in the pursuit of better treatments for all.

• In our latest newsletter, Dr. Kim Margolin provides a compelling update on the advancements in cancer vaccines.
• We feature a Dutch study highlighting improved survival rates for advanced melanoma patients.
• We’re introducing a new series, “Side Effect Central,” designed to assist patients in managing treatment side effects.
• We delve into the burgeoning field of oncodermatology.
• We also explore the potential risks associated with UV exposure during manicures.
• Additionally, don’t miss our Q&A session with Dr. Lynn Schuchter, who served as President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) from June 2023 to June 2024. She currently chairs the ASCO Board of Directors and contributes to the organization’s government relations committee

Thank you for your continued support in advancing melanoma research. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against melanoma.

Sam Guild
President
AIM at Melanoma Foundation