Wellness

The Newest Way To Test For Melanoma

by Ally Batista

Skin cancer is in no way limited to one gender, but we all know that females typically sit out and tan or use tanning beds far more often than men do. A woman’s desire for tanned skin has caused an increase in skin cancers throughout our gender, so it’s important that we all know what we’re dealing with.

All skin cancer cells look and act differently from normal and healthy cells. Obviously, this has been a strong precursor to diagnosing skin cancer in the past, but now, scientists are finding that cancerous skin cells may smell different as well.

Scientists at Philadelphia’s Monell Chemical Senses Center found that a nanotechnology-based sensor can tell the difference between cancerous cells and regular cells from their scents, which may be a huge breakthrough for cancer research and survival.

Because the treatment would be non-invasive, it might be easier and less time-consuming for doctors to perform, plus it may make people more inclined to get tested. Since melanoma is responsible for about 75 percent of skin cancer deaths and early detection is so important for survival chances, an easier, less painful procedure could save tons of lives.

Still, the best defense against skin cancer isn't finding it sooner rather than later: It's staying out of the sun to begin with. (Easier said that done, of course, so at least make sure to slather on that sunscreen before hitting the beach.)

Photo Credit: Getty Images