African-Americans and Melanoma Diagnosis ⋆ Sundicators

It’s a good bet that when people think about skin cancer and Melanoma, they think about it mostly as an affliction of the light-skinned. And you can see how that might be a reasonable assumption. Unfortunately, that’s not quite the reality. The excellent article by sciencedaily.com which we’ve cited below is a treasure chest of useful information on the subject.

Humans of all races and ethnicities develop skin cancer and Melanoma, and it is true that those with pale complexions are more at risk. However, as the article points out, Caucasians have a better survival rate after a diagnosis than African-Americans. And there are reasons for that.

Humans of all races and ethnicities develop skin cancer and Melanoma

The first one is the most obvious. People with dark skin tones typically won’t notice subtle changes as quickly as those with pale tones, due to the stark contrast in color Melanoma has on the skin of the latter group. And just that right there is huge.

The best chance to cure anyone’s Melanoma is to catch it at its earliest stages; before it spreads to the internal organs. The longer the wait there is between acquiring the disease and getting treatment for it, the more the odds of defeating it decrease. Frankly, it’s not an overstatement to say that there are no words strong enough to stress how crucial it is to detect Melanoma early.

Further, scientists believe there is the possibility that, biologically, people of color are susceptible to a more hostile version of Melanoma. Additionally, African-Americans are more likely to develop the disease in otherwise less common areas; such as on the palms and soles. Indeed, legendary reggae singer Bob Marley’s fatal case of Melanoma began in his toe.

Regardless of race or hue, everyone should check themselves regularly (at least monthly) for any odd changes to their skin, moles or birthmarks. It’s even better to have a spouse or partner help check the places that can’t be seen by individuals; if that applies. Of course, you can always ask your doctor to check you as well.

The sun’s UV rays are dangerous to all of us; every day and during every season. Skin is our largest organ, and its function is to shield the rest of what makes up our bodies. That’s why it’s vital to take sun-safety precautions whenever we’re outdoors; as we must protect it so that it can protect us.

*Source article: Sciencedaily.com

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Kerry Spindler is a Melanoma survivor and celebrity fashion and beauty expert. She uses her experience in the fashion and beauty world to bring greater awareness to skin cancer and Melanoma.