Dr. John's Health Matters

Aug 30, 2009 (Presstv.com)—Deficiencies in mobilizing the cells responsible for defending the body contribute to the higher vulnerability of seniors to skin cancer and infection.

Previous studies had reported that defects in a type of immune cell known as T cells account for the reduced immunity and subsequently a higher risk of skin cancer in older individuals.

A new study, however, finds there is nothing wrong with the T cells in the elderly.

According to the study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine, the signals responsible for directing T cells to the right place is missing in this group.

“At the outset we thought it would be the cells responsible for combating infections that might be at fault, but the surprising thing was the T cells were fine but they couldn’t get into the skin - the signals were missing,” said lead researcher Arne Akbar.

As the skin is believed to be capable of sending the required signals when forced, by boosting the immune system in seniors scientists can help them fight infection and reduce their risk of skin cancer.

Scientists hope their findings will pave the way for the development of effective treatments for the reversible condition.

PKH/HGH