New skin cancer medicine developed by Cuban scientists

Cuban biologists have presented this week a new treatment for skin cancer that was developed at the Havana-based Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology or CIGB.

The new medicine called “Heberferon” was developed after 20 years of research and clinical tests and has been called by specialists as a real breakthrough in modern medicine.

Biologist Iraldo Bello, who is part of the Heberferon team, described the drug as “unique” in the world since it is an original combination of Interferon Alfa and Interferon Gamma.

Interferons are a group of proteins made and released by host cells in response to the presence of several pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, and also tumor cells.

Heberferon is an injectable drug which helps to reduce skin tumors, with exception of melanoma, one of the most dangerous and invasive types of cancer. It also helps prevent scarring after surgical operations in areas such as the face.

Cuba has already produced more than 10,000 vials, and the specialists are going to introduce the Heberferon as one of the generic drugs produced on the island.

Cuba is known worldwide for its advances in medicine, despite the U.S. economic blockade that had prevented the island’s access to technology.