(August 21, 2008 - Insidermedicine) From Philadelphia - According to research presented to the American Chemical Society, basal cell carcinoma produces a distinctive odor that may lead to new ways to detect and diagnose skin cancer. The research could lead to the development of a sensor that could be moved across the skin to detect cancerous signatures. The scientists are now working on identifying the odor characteristics of squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.

From Boston - According to research in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, patients taking statins to control their cholesterol are not at higher risk for cancer. In a meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials, researchers found that, while those with the lowest levels of LDL, or "bad" cholesterol were more likely to have cancer, those who lowered their LDL by taking statins were no more likely to develop cancer than those with naturally low LDL levels.

And finally, from Washington - According to research in the journal Synapse, an epilepsy drug being tested as a treatment for addiction may also combat obesity. In a study of rats, those that were injected with the drug GVG for 40 days lost up to 19% of their weight if they were obese, and 12% to 20% of their weight if they were a healthy size. The drug works by suppressing the brain's dopamine reward system, which is major factor in addiction and overeating.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Allison Chow from Queen's University.