Vitiligo ( Skin condition that causes pale patches), is not skin cancer. Neither cancer or vitiligo can be passed on by sitting next to, or touching an individual with the condition.

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People of colour do need to use sun creams, and other similar products to protect their skin from harm. It is a myth that people with darker skin tones never get skin cancer. However it is true that the chances of developing the most common form of skin cancer are much, much lower. We must emphasise, it is very uncommon for people with darker skin tones to be diagnosed with the most common skin cancers (SCC and BCC). However it is not impossible. Exposure to the suns rays can be prolonged as some BME community members experience improved living conditions, and better health outcomes. People are generally living for longer periods under the sun.

American studies have shown that the lighter the skin tone, the higher the risk. People of mixed heritage with lighter skin tones should be particularly aware of their increased risk. Long term exposure to harmful radiation from the sun and regular use of sunbeds may increase the risk. Parents who traditionally may never have used protective skin products, should ensure younger children in particular, follow sun safe guidelines.

Areas where the skin tone is lighter like the palms of hands/soles of feet, sholud not be excluded when using skin protective products. This is where a type of skin cancer called melanoma is more likely to develop in people of colour, though it is still uncommon.

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If more than one close family member is affected by the same type of cancer, or cancers that are related, e.g. cancer of the ovary and breast cancer. it could be due to inherited genes, also known as a family history of cancer. This does not mean that every member of the family will be affected. Even if a family history exists there may be treatments, and other helps that can significantly reduce the chances of developing cancer. Any concerns should be discussed with a qualified health professional. (GP or nurse at local health centre, or call a recognised telephone helpline, answered by qualified staff.). For further information search links from home page. Type family history in the search box of recommended websites to find related information.

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Cancer is not catching. Sneezing or touching does not pass it on to other individuals However there are some infections in the form of bacteria or viruses that are not cancer, but they can create the conditions for a cancer to develop. Most commonly this is because they may weaken our bodies ability to destroy cancer cells by affecting the immune system.

The recently publicised new vaccine to prevent young girls developing cancer of the cervix (lower end of the womb),acts against the virus that is known to significantly increase the risk of developing cervical cancer. The number of new cervical cancer cases has fallen significantly in richer affluent countries, due to screening, and preventative treatments, but women in poorer developing countries are still significantly affected.

Women from UK BME communities are less likely to take up invitations for cancer screening than the general British female population. Lack of awareness about cancer may be compounded if English is not the first language. Complex medical jargon is not always easily translated or interpreted into other languages.

Click on the following link for information about a free national interpreting telephone helpline for UK residents affected by cancer.

http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Healthcareprofessionals/Reachingmorecommunities/CancerinYourLanguage

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