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U-M Cancer Center web chat focuses on genetic risk factors for skin cancer

Online question, answer session will discuss environmental, genetic causes of skin cancer

-added 05/04/2012

Ann Arbor - As the temperature rises and more people head outside to enjoy the sun and warm weather, the University of Michigan Health System wants to ensure everyone understands the risk factors for developing skin cancer.

On May 10, the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center will host an online chat to discuss the varying risk factors - both genetic and environmental - that can cause skin cancer.

"Environmental factors, especially UV exposure, play a major role in skin cancer risk," says Jessica Everett, M.S., C.G.C, a genetics counselor at the U-M Cancer Genetics Clinic. "But for some families, inherited factors like fair skin or light eyes can also influence risk."

Everett says the online chat will help participants understand the modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for the disease, as well as what to look for in their family histories that can better protect their health.

Along with Everett, Kelly Cha, M.D., Ph.D., a clinical lecturer in the Department of Dermatology will also answer participants' questions during the discussion.

The chat is scheduled for 12-1 p.m. on May 10. Registration is encouraged, but not required.

Event Information for "Genetics, skin cancer and you":

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Written by: Justin Harris; contact by telephone: 734-764-2220; or juaha@umich.edu

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