First of Its Kind Skin Cancer Drug Developed in Cuba

Researchers in Cuba have released Heberferon, a drug formulated to eliminate non-melanoma skin cancer at any stage. With only six months on the market, the drug has already brought relief to more than 400 Cuban residents. According to national news reports, in a study of 800 participants, 60 percent of patients with basal cell carcinoma responded positively to the drug.

On this hot and sunny Caribbean nation, skin cancer has affected more than 10,200 Cubans — with more than 60 percent of those cases being basal cell carcinoma. Many struggle both physically and psychologically with scars as a result of surgical treatments. Heberferon is a unique alternative to conventional procedures, as it’s injected  into basal cell carcinomas three times a week for three weeks and then once every four months, effectively eliminating the cancer at the “organic level.” It’s ideal for people with lesions around the eyes, nose, and mouth who would otherwise require a complex surgical operation.

Developed by the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Heberferon is a result of over 20 years of research and clinical studies. It’s a combination of interferons alpha and gamma, and according to CIGB researcher, Iraldo Bello, MD, “it’s the only one of its kind in the world.” Currently, the center is working to ensure that Heberferon can be accessed across the island.