New melanoma vaccine reduces recurrence or death by up to 49%

A new melanoma vaccine shows promise, potentially reducing recurrence or death by up to 49% in advanced skin cancer patients. Developed by Moderna and Merck, the mRNA-based vaccine, combined with pembrolizumab, was tested in a phase 2 study over five years on 157 patients. This therapeutic vaccine, similar in principle to COVID-19 vaccines, stimulates the immune system. Phase 3 trials are underway to confirm these preliminary findings.