Parkinson increased risk of melanoma

Parkinson's disease: risk factor for melanoma

Suspected for several years, but today it's proven Parkinson's disease actually increases the risk of melanoma (skin cancer). A recent study shows that the risk is greater for women and a half times and two times greater in men who have Parkinson's. How the two diseases are linked, the researchers explained, however, does not matter.

What is melanoma?

A melanoma is a skin tumor, in the form of a mole (nevus), which is an abnormal size, shape and color. It can spontaneously emerge or evolve from an existing mole. Although not the only form of skin cancer is melanoma is the most aggressive. Protection is possible by prolonged exposure to the sun and of course, to avoid heat-stroke prevention. Do not hesitate in the least black tumor contact with a dermatologist. Do this even if the shape of an existing mole changes.

Turn not immediately panic

Parkinson's disease patients should immediately go to their dermatologist? "No," replies Professor Alain Maertens the North Wood, a neurologist at the CHR Citadelle in Liège. "Parkinson's disease actually increases the risk of melanoma. But the risk also increases among people with pale skin and blue eyes. It is of course recommended in the sun without protection to continue. But overall there is no reason to panic, "he assures. People with Parkinson's do not need to be close to home during the summer. But a straw hat and sunscreen are well appointed.

(1) Liu R, Gao X, Lu Y, Chen H. Meta-analysis of the Relationship Between Parkinson's disease and melanoma. Neurology. 2011 June 7, 76 (23) :2002-9.