Melanoma expert Laura Ferris, MD, PhD, of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, explains screening to find genetic changes, or mutations, that can cause melanoma in the skin. This may include blood tests to look for oncogenes – genes that cause cancer – and non-functioning tumor suppressor genes, problems with the genes that help prevent cancer. Dr. Ferris explains that genetic screening can also include asking about a family history of skin cancer and considering how your genes for skin, hair, and eye color and past medical history make melanoma more or less likely.

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