Skin cancer prevention: Lunch & Learn about «Melanoma»
05.09.2023
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More than 100 colleagues took the opportunity to participate in today’s Lunch & Learn, either in person or online. The following is an excerpt of what they learned.
We are committed to the fight against cancer
Switzerland is one of the countries with the highest melanoma incidence rate in the world. Although the average age at diagnosis is 65, melanoma is also one of the most common cancers in young adults under 30, especially women.
«As one of the world’s leading companies in the field of oncology, we consider our responsibility to educate people about cancer and how to prevent it.»
Panos Neofytos, AVP, International Oncology Marketing
Facts about melanoma
There are different forms of skin cancer. Melanoma is the most severe form.
Melanoma can develop not only on the skin, but also, for example, in the eye or in the mucosal membranes.
The main risk factor for melanoma is UV radiation with sunburn, especially during childhood and adolescence.
Other risk factors include among others a large number of moles, family history, genetic susceptibility and a weakened immune system.
«The earlier the diagnosis is made, the better the prognosis. It’s important to check the skin regularly.»
Lynda Benmahammed Bellagha, MD, Regional Director Medical Affairs Oncology
Melanoma patient Werner
Werner has a so-called “hidden” melanoma. In his case, the tumor grew inward without any external signs. When he was diagnosed with melanoma, it was twelve, not five to twelve. At the Lunch & Learn, he spoke with Nadia Pellanda, Director EUCAN Oncology Policy. His story is told here (in German, French and Italian).
«Before my illness, I didn’t really know anything about melanoma.»
Melanoma patient Werner and Nadia Pellanda, Director EUCAN Oncology Policy
The ABCD rule
We can actively contribute to reducing the risk of melanoma by ourselves. The most effective measure is sun protection. It is also important to check the skin regularly and to have conspicuous changes examined by a doctor. The so-called ABCD rule is a helpful support to recognize a conspicuous mole
Inside Schachen: a glance at our high-tech development center
Our MSD site in Schachen in the Canton of Lucerne is no ordinary site. It is a fusion of the most modern technology, innovative research and development, and an inspiring work environment.
13.07.2023
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Our site in Schachen plays a key role in the development of new, innovative medicines. Since its establishment in 1976, the site has continually grown. Today, about 490 employees from 30 countries work in Schachen.
Here is what we do in Schachen:
01.
We manufacture biotechnological active substances.
In Schachen, we have at our disposal biotechnical production on a clinical scale for producing new active substances, as well as capacities for sterile filling of new medicines.
02.
We supply medicines for global clinical studies.
Schachen is one of only two sites in MSD’s global network that provides new medicines for clinical studies worldwide. Here, the clinical test samples are packed, labeled and then shipped to clinical sites all over the world. The strictly monitored studies show whether the new medicines are effective and safe.
03.
We develop analytical methods for new active substances and medicines.
Analytical development is one of our main areas. In various specialized laboratories, we examine cell cultures, conduct tests with bioassays and offer everything needed to develop analysis methods for new active substances and medicines, from PCR analytics and mass spectroscopy to biochemical analyzes.
04.
We work on analysis methods that allow a continuous production process to be seamlessly monitored and controlled.
Continuous production processes in the pharmaceutical industry are still the exception because the technical and regulatory requirements are very high.
05.
We operate a forensic laboratory in which suspected cases of counterfeit medicines are investigated.
In Schachen, we operate one of three forensic laboratories worldwide with the goal of quickly detecting manipulations and counterfeits of MSD products. Our scientists work with the aid of analytical methods and highly specialized instruments to differentiate counterfeits from original products and, if necessary, to present the results in court as experts to support corresponding criminal prosecutions. They also work on further optimizing the counterfeit protection of MSD products worldwide.
«At the Schachen site, it’s not just a matter of the most modern technology and innovative research, but primarily about people. I am incredibly proud of our team, which works passionately and is committed to improve the lives of patients with ground-breaking discoveries and the development of new medicines. Their untiring commitment makes Schachen a place where we achieve greatness together.»
Do you know diseases that vaccination can help to prevent? Here you can find out more.
12.07.2023
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Vaccines help protect against diseases by very cleverly inducing immunity in our bodies. They present our bodies with a substance recognizable as the infection – for example a virus or bacterium constituent. This tricks the body’s immune system into producing antibodies and an immune memory, which then provide protection if exposure to the actual infection occurs. This immunity may be retained for years, decades, or even a lifetime following vaccination.
The following overview shows some diseases and infections that vaccination can help to prevent (as of June 2023):
01.
Human papillomaviruses
Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are widespread. To date, more than 200 types of the virus are known. A distinction is made between high-risk and low-risk HPV types. The latter can cause genital warts in women and men. These are harmless but rather unsightly and annoying skin changes (nodules) in the genital area. The high-risk types can trigger forms of cancer in women and men, such as cervical cancer or vaginal, penile, anal, and throat cancers.
02.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is an inflammation of the liver (jaundice), which is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The virus is transmitted via the blood or body fluids of an infected person (e.g. sexual intercourse). Hepatitis B is highly contagious. The infection is considered to be chronic if the virus is in the blood for longer than six months. WHO estimates that two billion people are infected by the hepatitis B (HBV) virus worldwide. 257 million of these are already chronically ill; over 880,000 people die every year as a result. In Switzerland, about 44,000 people live with hepatitis B.
03.
Pneumococcal Disease (PD)
PD is caused by a bacterium called Streptococcus pneumoniae, also known as pneumococcus. Pneumococcal diseases occur sporadically worldwide – outbreaks are rare. Several million people are affected each year and over one million of them die, many despite timely antibiotic treatment. The burden of disease is particularly high for infants under 2 years of age,among those aged 65 years and older and people of all ages with chronic conditions such as chronic heart disease or chronic respiratory disease. In Switzerland, there are about 1000 severe pneumococcal infections per year, mostly pneumonia, less frequently blood poisoning or meningitis. Children under two years of age and persons over 65 years of age are mainly affected. A total of around 100 people die each year, of whom around 80% are over 65 years of age.
04.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is an infectious disease caused by the highly contagious varicella zoster virus (VZV). The virus causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness and fever. Chickenpox is most common in children but anyone who has not had chickenpox can get the disease.
05.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can occur at any age. It begins with fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, photophobia, inflammation of the oral mucosa and is often accompanied by cough, colds and sore throat. Uncomplicated cases heal quite quickly and without permanent consequences. However, there is a risk of complications such as brain inflammation (encephalitis; 1 per 1000 cases), pneumonia (measles pneumonia; 10 to 60 per 1000 cases) or middle ear inflammation (otitis media). Sometimes measles complications lead to death.
06.
Mumps
Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus. It typically starts with headache, discomfort and fever, followed by the characteristic swelling of the parotid glands. Mumps is generally a mild children’s disease that mainly affects children between the ages of five and nine. However, adults can also become infected with mumps, which can be associated with serious complications.
07.
Rubella
Rubella is a contagious, generally mild viral infection that occurs most often in children and young adults. While the illness is generally mild in children, it has serious consequences in pregnant women causing fetal death or congenital defects known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). The rubella virus is transmitted by airborne droplets when infected people sneeze or cough. Humans are the only known host.
As a company with a long legacy of research in vaccines and infectious diseases, we’ve been committed to advancing an effective response to COVID-19 since it was first discovered.
11.07.2023
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«We’ve been focused on contributing our scientific expertise and experience to help address COVID-19.»
01.
Our oral antiviral COVID-19 medicine
In collaboration with Ridgeback Biotherapeutics, we have advanced our research and development efforts for our COVID-19 medicine, making an important contribution to the care of COVID-19 patients.
We are working with health authorities to make our therapeutic option available worldwide.
02.
Access to health care
We have a long track record of making our medicines and vaccines accessible and affordable. Our comprehensive supply and access strategy has enabled timely and broad access to our COVID-19 medicine for patients around the world, including in low- and middle-income countries.
We have also provided UNICEF with up to 3 million treatment units for low- and middle-income countries.
Through our licensing agreements with generics manufacturers and the Medicines Patent Pool, more than 5 million courses of generic therapy have been delivered to 22 low- and middle-income countries through December 2022.
03.
Our commitment as an employer
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve prioritized the health, safety and well-being of our employees and their families and supported our health care providers and our communities, including through volunteer work and donation efforts.
We continue to research
We are proud to turn breakthrough science into medicines and vaccines that save and improve lives around the world. We focus on finding new solutions for today and the future.
Dr. Maurice Hilleman: “The father of modern vaccines”
25.05.2023
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Vaccines are part of MSD’s history and are closely associated with Dr. Maurice Hilleman (1919-2005), the father of modern vaccine science. During his nearly 30-year career at MSD, he developed more than 40 vaccines for humans and animals. This legacy continues today thanks to our dedicated researchers.
The story of modern day vaccines began in 1796 when Dr. Edward Jenner inoculated 8-year-old James Phipps with cowpox as a way to protect him from smallpox. Jenner used the term “vaccination,” “vacca” being Latin for “cow.” In fact, it has been recognized for centuries that some diseases never reinfect a person after recovery. Smallpox was the first disease people tried to prevent by intentionally inoculating themselves with infected matter.
Dr. Edward Jenner inoculating 8-year-old James Phipps with cowpox.
Eight decades after Jenner published his findings, Louis Pasteur developed the first live attenuated bacterial vaccine. Attenuation is a process that weakens the bacteria or virus in a vaccine so it is less likely to cause disease, while still triggering an immune response similar to the natural infection. It would take many more decades for advances in basic and clinical research to make it possible for scientists to understand viruses well enough to begin developing vaccines that help protect against viral diseases.
DR. MAURICE HILLEMAN
The scientists who made giant strides in the fight against viral diseases included Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin. Dr. Maurice Hilleman, who led MSD’s Department of Virus and Cell Biology from 1956 to 1984, also belonged to that distinguished group of vaccine pioneers. Credited with helping to develop more than forty vaccines, Dr. Hilleman’s passionate commitment continues to inspire scientists in medical research laboratories to this day.
Dr. Hilleman was born and raised on a farm in Montana. It was a hard life, but a farm background was a great foundation for his later work. “When you are brought up on a farm, you have a lot of general knowledge,” he said. After graduating from the University of Chicago with a doctorate in microbiology and chemistry, Hilleman chose to work at a pharmaceutical company instead of academia.
Despite his many accomplishments, including helping to develop more than 40 human and animal vaccines, Dr. Maurice Hilleman’s name is virtually unknown by the general public and press. Yet his impact on public health is undeniable.
"Since Pasteur, he's done more for preventive medicine than anyone else."
Dale C. Smith
Chief historian at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD
"His commitment was to make something useful and convert it to clinical use. Maurice's genius was in developing vaccines, reliably reproducing them, and he was in charge of all pharmaceutical facets from research to the marketplace."
Paul Offit
Chief of infectious diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Hilleman's biographer
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan awarded the National Medal of Science to Dr. Hilleman, and in 1997, he was honored with The Albert B. Sabin Gold Medal Award. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has called Dr. Hilleman one of the true giants of science, medicine and public health in the 20th century.
Addressing antibiotic resistance is more critical than ever. Here’s why.
Since their development, antibiotics have transformed health care and saved countless lives globally. But rising levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) make current antibiotics less effective.
18.05.2023
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There’s no single or simple solution to the complex problem of AMR, but we’re committed to investing our expertise and resources alongside our partners to get much-needed antibiotics to those who need them most. Lives are at risk, and the time to act is now.
True to our company’s longstanding tradition of preventing and treating infectious diseases, we’re proud to commit to invest $100 million over 10 years in the new AMR Action Fund. Through this groundbreaking partnership of leading pharmaceutical companies, philanthropies, development banks and multilateral organizations, we aim to bridge the gap between the innovative early antibiotic pipeline and patients. New antibiotics are urgently needed. With this new fund for antibiotic research and development, our collective aim is to bring two to four new antibiotics to patients and physicians by the end of the decade.
Here are five key reasons to build on these collaborative efforts to address AMR:
01.
New antibiotics are urgently needed; however, there are relatively few in development.
AMR is a naturally occurring phenomenon through which bacteria build up defenses against antibiotics. The nature of resistance means that there is a continual need to develop new antibiotics so we can stay a step ahead of resistant pathogens.
MSD has remained committed to antibiotic R&D for over 80 years and brought forward new treatments each decade. However, major scientific, regulatory and economic challenges discourage innovation in antibiotics, resulting in a significant decline in the number of companies conducting antibiotic and antifungal R&D over the last two decades. Recognizing there is unlikely to be a one-size-fits-all solution to the problem, MSD and others have suggested a series of policy reforms across several regions of the world. However, time is running out. We need collaboration from policymakers across the globe to help antibiotic innovation flourish for decades to come.
02.
Once new antibiotics are approved, they need to be used appropriately.
While developing new antimicrobials is important, slowing resistance to current medicines is equally crucial. Appropriate antibiotic therapy can play an important role in treating patients with resistant infections and preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics.
We must work together to implement evidence-based policies and programs that support the appropriate prescribing and use of antimicrobials. At MSD, we are making significant investments to support antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), helping hospitals around the world to develop and implement patient-centered AMS programs that are customized at the local level based on factors like epidemiology, clinical setting and resource availability. We also provide significant grant funding to support a wide range of AMS initiatives and collaborations.
Some of our global contributions to AMS:
Supported the development of several AMS Centers of Excellence throughout the world
Helped public health leaders effectively monitor and address emerging AMR infections, promote AMS and customize accepted AMS strategies to meet local needs
Contributed toward meaningful standardized patient safety outcome measures for US hospital AMS programs
Funded a round of Discovery Awards (small seed grants to help diagnostic innovators get their ideas off the ground and improve their chances of winning the UK-based Longitude Prize)
03.
We must track resistance trends and use the data to inform on prescribing.
To ensure that antibiotics are being prescribed appropriately, clinical treatment guidelines must remain up-to-date and based on resistance trends. Surveillance studies can assist in identifying these trends in pathogen incidence and AMR, and can also identify emergent resistant strains.
At MSD, we work with public health bodies, health care professionals and diagnostics companies to inform appropriate antibiotic use by sharing surveillance data. One of the largest AMR surveillance programs, our Study for Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance Trends (SMART) program has collected approximately 500,000 bacterial isolates from 217 sites in 63 countries since 2002. This data can help to curb the development of AMR by informing adequate treatment plans and prescribing guidelines that ensure antibiotics are used appropriately.
04.
We need to think beyond human health.
The challenge of AMR is multifaceted, and we believe a One Health approach to creating policies is critical to attain optimal health for people, animals and our environment.
When it comes to animal health, vaccines should be considered a first line of defense against bacterial and viral diseases. By preventing diseases, vaccines can help minimize the need for antibiotics. MSD Animal Health is one of the largest manufacturers of animal health vaccines, supplying over 100B doses each year. We are also engaged in collaborative efforts to ensure new and existing antibiotics are effective now and in the future for all species.
Protecting the environment through responsible manufacturing is another key component of the One Health approach. To combat rising levels of antibiotics in the environment, we have committed over $100 million to ensure factory discharges do not present a risk to human health or the environment. We also worked with our partners in the AMR Industry Alliance to inform science‐based manufacturing targets to help ensure robust scrutiny of industry manufacturing supply chains.
05.
The time to act against AMR is now.
We have received ample warning signs of the dangers of AMR. With collaboration across the scientific community and policymakers, it is preventable.
We all have a role to play as we look ahead to prepare for the next health crisis. We know that without action, AMR will have significant global consequences. We must act now to put measures in place to ensure we have the antibiotics we need for our generation and those to come.
Prevention starts with us! To mark International HPV Awareness Day, we met with gynecologist Dr. Alina Staikov for a Lunch & Learn. During the meeting, we had the opportunity to learn about the impact human papillomavirus (HPV) can have on our health and how we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the viruses and certain cancers it causes.
31 March 2023
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In celebration of International HPV Awareness Day on March 4, our Leadership Team invited all MSD employees to a Lunch & Learn with Dr. Alina Staikov. She is a gynecologist committed to the fight against cancer and is dedicated to education, treatment, prevention and early detection of the disease.
What does cancer have to do with HPV? Human papillomaviruses can cause cancer in some cases. The good thing is, if you are informed, you can protect yourself from HPV, prevent HPV-related cancers or get early treatment for them!
At MSD, we are committed to the prevention and early detection of cancer
As one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in oncology, we don’t just focus on educating the public – we live by what we say. This is why we regularly organize internal events to educate ourselves further on pertinent subjects – in this case about HPV and how it impacts health. More than 50 colleagues from all Swiss subsidiaries took the opportunity to learn from Dr. Staikov and ask their questions.
HPV can cause certain cancers
Dr. Staikov presented key facts about HPV. Among the other information she provided, she explained that these viruses are common and even teenagers should know about them, because even they can become infected. She explained that almost everyone will come into contact with HPV during their lifetime and what can happen if the virus does not go away on its own. This is the specific reason why Dr. Staikov focused on the options of early prevention and detection. After her lecture, we were afforded the opportunity to ask questions, making the event interactive and vibrant. What is the message we took away? Read the next section!
Five facts about HPV that everyone should know
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is common and can occur in teenagers and adults.
People are infected with HP viruses through person-to-person contact involving the skin and mucous membranes.
HP viruses can cause certain cancers and precancerous tissue abnormalities.
The most common HPV-related cancers include cervical cancer, anal cancer, and oral and pharyngeal cancers.
Safer sex and vaccination can help prevent certain HPV-related diseases.
“Getting the information to the people is the most important thing. If they are not informed, they can’t make decisions and they don’t have choices.“
Dr. Alina Staikov
At the event
Applause for Dr. Staikov
The event was a great opportunity for us to learn as a team and live by MSD culture.
Every single life motivates us, day after day, to give our best.
Pulmonary hypertension is a chronic disease that can be life-threatening if left untreated. At MSD, we are committed to people who are affected by this disease.
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic disease characterised by increased blood pressure in the pulmonary circulation. It may lead to a significant impairment of physical capacity and can be life-threatening if left untreated. There are various treatment options that aim to alleviate symptoms, stop progression of the disease and maintain the highest possible quality of life.
Our commitment in the area of pulmonary hypertension
For over
5
years committed to improving the lives of patients in Switzerland
In the year
2013
introduction of the first soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulator for PH in Switzerland
Active since
2016
in longstanding partnerships and projects
Our partnerships and projects
Collaboration with the Schweizerische Gesellschaft für Pulmonale Hypertonie [Swiss Society for Pulmonary Hypertension] (SGPH)
The SGPH is panel of experts that for more than 20 years has bundled all findings about pulmonary hypertension into one efficient network. We have supported the SGPH for years in different projects and initiatives.
Cooperation with patient organisations
We have been involved for years in collaborative partnerships with patient organisations and the Swiss PH Society for people with pulmonary hypertension.
Continuing education events and conferences
MSD regularly takes part in the conference of the Schweizerische Gesellschaft für Pneumologie [Swiss Society for Pulmonology] (SGP) and supports continuing education events for physicians in order to help clarify pulmonary hypertension and its treatment.
Clinical Research
For almost 130 years, we have conducted research worldwide to contribute to better health for our society with our medications and vaccines, for today and future generations. In Switzerland, MSD is currently conducting 42 clinical studies in different areas of therapy (as of 10/2023).
Especially in November, during Pulmonary Hypertension Awareness Month, and on 5 May, World Pulmonary Hypertension Day, we raise awareness of the disease and the importance of early detection among the general public.
"The sooner pulmonary hypertension is diagnosed and treated, the sooner a patient can benefit from an improvement in the quality of his or her life. With our commitment, we wish to contribute to the clarification and early detection of the disease".
MSD Switzerland awarded with the Swiss LGBTI Label
On June 16th 2021, MSD was awarded the with the Swiss LGBTI Label, a certification awarded to companies and organizations with an open and inclusive culture. This certification is intended to help promote the inclusion of LGBTI people at the workplace and beyond.
16.06.2021
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The Swiss LGBTI-Label is a seal of quality for organizations based in Switzerland, or Swiss organizations that work for the internal equality of LGBTI persons. LGBTI means persons who differ from the majority of the population in their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Diversity and Inclusion
At MSD Switzerland we believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce inspires innovation and is fundamental to our company’s success. While there has been great progress when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights, there is still work to be done — and we’re proud to play a role in achieving those goals. MSD has a longstanding tradition of supporting the LGBTQ+ community, in our company and beyond. Having an environment comprised of people from different dimensions of diversity also helps us better understand the unique needs of the customers, health care providers and patients we serve, including those with different abilities.
The Swiss LGBTI label executive board said:
“We congratulate MSD for receiving our Swiss LGBTI label. The label recognizes the exceptional work done by MSD to foster equality and inclusion of LGBTI People in the workplace. MSD went successfully through a very comprehensive assessment of the inclusiveness of its organizational practices. We applaud the very positive journey engaged by MSD, its contribution to societal positive change and its impact beyond its industry.”
