Professor Richard Scolyer, an Australian doctor, recently revealed he is brain cancer-free a year after undergoing a pioneering treatment based on his research.
Using his research on melanoma, the 57-year-old treated his stage 4 glioblastoma, an incurable brain tumour, following his diagnosis in June 2023.
Earlier this week, he shared an update on X, writing: “I had a brain MRI scan last Thursday looking for recurrent glioblastoma (and/or treatment complications). I found out yesterday that there is still no sign of recurrence. I couldn’t be happier!!!!!”
According to the Cancer Research Institute, cancer immunotherapy leverages the body’s immune system to prevent, control, and eliminate cancer.
Scolyer was named the 2024 Australian of the Year for his life-saving research with Melanoma Institute Australia co-medical director Georgina Long.
After initially suffering from epileptic seizures, liver issues, and pneumonia during the first months of treatment, Scolyer is now feeling “the best” and exercises daily.
However, his research partner Long stated they are “not there yet” in developing an approved and regulated treatment.
“We have to focus on showing that this pre-surgery, combination immunotherapy approach works in many people,” Long said.
