According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, men, especially Black men, are more susceptible to death from melanoma than women. The study, which analyzed data from over 200,000 individuals, revealed that survival rates for melanoma were lowest for Black men, followed by Hispanic, Asian, and American Indian men.
The study also highlighted an interesting finding about melanoma development in individuals with darker skin tones. While people with lighter skin tones tend to develop melanomas in sun-exposed areas of the body, those with darker skin tones are more likely to get melanomas in areas shielded from the sun. This makes it more challenging to detect these melanomas and increases the risk of delayed diagnosis.
Moreover, individuals with darker pigment may find it more difficult to notice the presence of new brown or dark spots on their skin. Therefore, it is crucial for people of all skin tones to protect themselves from excessive sun exposure, remain vigilant in monitoring their skin for any changes, and seek medical attention if any suspicious changes are observed. This includes checking not only the commonly exposed areas but also the palms and soles of the feet.
The study’s findings emphasize the importance of melanoma awareness and prevention strategies, regardless of one’s skin tone. By taking proactive measures to reduce sun exposure and regularly monitoring their skin for any abnormalities, individuals can significantly decrease their risk of melanoma and its potential fatal outcomes.
As a renowned physician and HealthWatch Reporter for CBS Boston/WBZ-TV, Dr. Mallika Marshall has been at the forefront of providing medical insights for over 20 years. Dr. Marshall is an Emmy-award-winning journalist and an expert in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. She currently serves on staff at Harvard Medical School and practices medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she is actively assisting COVID-19 patients. She is also a host and contributing editor for Harvard Health Publications, the publishing division of Harvard Medical School.
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