New blood test could change the game on melanomas

Melanomas are the most prevalent cancers in young Australians and account for more deaths each year than the road toll. Now, a new blood test could change how and when a melanoma is detected, potentially saving thousands of lives and stopping countless other people from unnecessary operations.

This photo provided by the American Academy of Dermatology shows a typical presentation of a suspicious mole that eventually was diagnosed as melanoma. Source: AAP

First, health professionals want to be sure the test would give accurate and reliable results, not false hope.