Comparative study of cutaneous melanoma and its associated issues between people of African decent and Caucasians

Abstract

Cutaneous melanoma is uncommon in people of African descent unlike their Caucasian counterparts. This rarity of cutaneous melanoma in people of African descent makes studies in this group difficult. In the few studies that are available, several differences exist in the incidence, disease severity, course of the disease, treatment modalities and survival rates between these two groups. Observed difference in cutaneous melanoma between people of African descent and Caucasians include; a higher incidence and better prognosis in Caucasians, a low awareness of melanoma, no definite risk factors, presentation with advanced disease, poor melanoma specific survival in people of African descent. Other differences are a better UV-induced DNA damage recovery, acral as opposed to truncal melanoma, female preponderance and lack of preventive measures in people of African descent.