Minorities have a history of not getting treated for skin cancer while it's still in its early stages. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, African Americans and Asian Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer in later stages, when there are less treatment options. CNN recently reported on this problem.
According to the news provider, it is a common and dangerous misconception that darker skinned people do not have a risk of skin cancer. Dermatologist Heather Woolery Lloyd explained that melanoma can be very treatable in it's early stages, but it becomes more difficult to treat over time.
"The need for proper education and skin cancer screenings is crucial. Increased awareness this will ensure that the African American and Hispanic population doesn't fall victim to a very preventable disease," said Lloyd.
The Skin Cancer foundation reports that the number of women under age 40 diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma (one of the common forms of skin cancer) has more than doubled in the last 30 years. Ethnic women looking to possibly reduce their risk of skin cancer should consider using an African American skin care product with SPF for sun protection.
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