Hidden Danger: Melanoma in Darker Skin
Melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer responsible for 75% of skin cancer deaths, is often diagnosed at later stages in individuals with darker skin tones, leading to poorer outcomes, according to a new Mayo Clinic study.
Why Melanoma is a Hidden Danger for Darker Skin
While melanoma occurs less frequently in people with darker complexions compared to lighter skin, this aggressive cancer can affect anyone regardless of skin tone. The study, analyzing data from nearly half a million melanoma patients, highlights the critical need for increased vigilance in early detection, particularly for Black men.
Dr. Tina Hieken, a surgical oncologist and lead author of the study, explains the observed disparities: “We compared Black patients to white patients and found significant differences in how they presented with melanoma. Black patients were more likely to have extremity melanoma (cancer on arms, legs, hands, and feet) and later-stage disease at diagnosis.”
Several factors, including social and biological aspects, might contribute to these disparities. Further research is needed to understand the underlying causes.
Sex-Based Differences in Immune Response
The study also revealed a surprising difference in outcomes based on sex. Black women with melanoma fared better than Black men. Men tended to be older at diagnosis and have more advanced-stage cancer (spread to lymph nodes) compared to women.
Dr. Hieken emphasizes the lack of research on how race and sex influence melanoma outcomes across different ethnicities. This study is the first large-scale investigation to confirm sex-based disparities in survival rates within the Black population.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap
Researchers emphasize the need for more inclusive studies on melanoma, including a broader range of participants, especially Black individuals, in clinical trials. This will bridge the current knowledge gap and potentially lead to more effective treatments.
“Our goal is to expand and deepen our understanding of the disease across all patient populations,” states Dr. Hieken. She acknowledges the crucial role played by the Mayo Clinic Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery in facilitating this research.
“Through this and other studies, the Kern Center has helped us identify critical areas for further investigation,” explains Dr. Hieken. “We have a robust and multidisciplinary clinical research program focused on melanoma, and we aim to address unmet needs and knowledge gaps relevant to patient care.”
A Call to Action in the Fight Against Melanoma
This study serves as a wake-up call for healthcare professionals and the public in the ongoing battle against melanoma, regardless of a patient’s sex or skin tone. Dr. Hieken emphasizes the importance of thorough skin examinations, including areas like palms, soles, and under the fingernails, where melanoma can be more challenging to detect on darker skin.
“We can integrate skin lesion and nail bed checks into routine patient visits,” suggests Dr. Hieken. “Our ultimate goal is to elevate the quality of care for all our patients.”
Don’t wait! Take charge of your skin health. Check out these links to reputable organizations for more information and support on Melanoma:
American Cancer Society:https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/melanoma-skin-cancer/about.htmlThe Skin Cancer Foundation:https://www.skincancer.org/Melanoma Research Foundation:https://www.curemelanoma.org/Mayo Clinic:https://www.mayoclinic.org/ (Melanoma Section) National Cancer Institute:https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin (Skin Cancer Section)
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