Link between moles and skin cancer found

By Ellie Omahoney on Monday 6 July 2009

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Mole - Health News - Marie Claire

Scientists have discovered that two genes that regulate the appearance of moles can double the risk of skin cancer.

The genes were identified after researchers at the Department of Twin Research at King's College London scoured the genetic codes of more than 1,500 adult female twins in Britain.

It was already known that having a lot of moles is a major risk factor for the disease but this discovery could help research teams develop treatments.

Dr Veronique Bataille, a consultant dermatologist at the Department of Twin Research, who took part in the study, said: ‘These new genes may be useful for screening but will also help in understanding melanoma genetic pathways with possible therapeutic targets.

'If you do have many moles, especially large moles, it is recommended that you have them checked.’