Merck (NYSE: MRK) saw its shares wilt Tuesday morning, on the announcement that Health Canada has granted approval for KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck's anti-PD-1 therapy, for the adjuvant treatment of adult and pediatric (12 years and older) patients with stage IIB or IIC melanoma following complete resection. This approval is based on the results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-716 trial, which demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in recurrence-free survival (RFS).
This year alone, an estimated 9,000 Canadians will be diagnosed with melanoma, a form of cancer that takes place when melanocytes, the cells responsible for melanin production, start to grow uncontrollably and develop into a tumour. Although it is the least common of all skin cancers, melanoma is the most serious type and early diagnosis and treatment are critical.
"We welcome the news of a new treatment option for Canadians living with this disease as the incidence of melanoma continues to rise across the country," said Kathy Barnard, Founder/President of Save Your Skin Foundation. "Having options available right after surgery can help take action against a disease that moves quickly if not caught."
"Melanoma can affect anyone, including children, for whom, although rare, this is the most common amongst pediatric skin cancer types," said Falyn Katz, Executive Director, Melanoma Canada. "Having options available, like this one, can help to make a difference for Canadians facing this particular type of skin cancer, helping them navigate the disease."
MRK shares dropped 69 cents to $87.47.
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