Laylah
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Joined: 27 Mar 2006
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 Posted: 07/19/07 - 02:40 Post subject: Skin cancer in blacks is rare but dangerous |
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Many people are not aware that black people can get skin cancers. The biggest problem is that once they get diagnosed, they are more likely to be in advanced and possibly fatal stages. For those who did not know, reggae musician Bob Marley is the most famous black person who died of melanoma.
Scientists can’t still agree on what causes skin cancer in blacks but they doubt it is related to sun exposure. There are no definite thoughts on what causes skin cancer in blacks but the mortality rates are certainly of concern and should make black people as well as physicians more alert.
Usually experts attribute blacks' higher mortality rates and late-stage diagnosis to a lack of awareness that they too are facing a risk of skin cancer and a lesser attunedness to things like screenings and personal mole inspections.
However, even when black patients are diagnosed with skin cancer, they have slightly worse outcomes than the white people with the same stage. This could indicate that the biology of the cancer is more aggressive just like with the breast cancer in black women or also that blacks are getting different care, possibly for socioeconomic or cultural reasons.
The risk exists but it is rare because the melanin in darkly pigmented skin protects against the harmful ultraviolet radiation that causes skin cancer in whites. Also, blacks most commonly get skin cancer in areas not exposed to the sun like the soles of the feet, the palms of the hands, underneath their fingernails and toenails.
Other scientists argue that the risk of sun exposure in black people shouldn’t be ruled out just yet.
Well, one thing is certain. More studies are needed to find out at how much risk of skin cancer black people are and what puts them at the risk. |
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