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Wright CY, Norval M. Solar Ultraviolet Radiation, Skin Cancer and Photoprotective Strategies in South Africa †. Photochem Photobiol 2023; 99:509-518. [PMID: 35841370 DOI: 10.1111/php.13676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The most recent data relating to the incidence of, and mortality from, the three commonest forms of skin cancer, namely basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and cutaneous melanoma (CM), in the Black African, Colored, Asian/Indian and White population groups in South Africa are reviewed. While exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation is the major environmental risk factor for BCC in all four groups, for SSC in the White and Asian/Indian groups and for CM in the White group, this is unlikely to be the case for most SCCs in the Black African group and for most CMs in the Black African and Asian/Indian groups. Strategies for practical personal photoprotection in South Africa are discussed with particular emphasis on people at heightened risk of skin cancer including the White population group, those with HIV or oculocutaneous albinism and outdoor workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caradee Yael Wright
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mary Norval
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh, UK
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Valentin J, Niemetzky F, Gaillet M, Michaud C, Carbunar A, Demar M, Couppie P, Blaizot R. Spectrum of skin diseases in Maroon villages of the Maroni area, French Guiana. Int J Dermatol 2022; 61:1137-1144. [PMID: 35767188 PMCID: PMC9543587 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to their genetic characteristics and their high exposure to infectious diseases, Maroons are likely to suffer from a specific spectrum of skin diseases. However, skin disorders have never been explored in this population. We aimed to describe all skin diseases in Maroon villages of the Maroni region in French Guiana. METHODS This retrospective study concerned all patients who consulted in the remote health centers of Apatou, Grand-Santi, Papaichton, and Maripasoula between October 5, 2017, and June 30, 2020. We included all patients registered with a skin disorder (International Classification of Diseases) in the medical database. We excluded patients whose diagnosis was invalidated after cross-checking by a dermatologist. RESULTS A total of 4741 patients presented at least one skin disease, for 6058 different disorders. Nonsexually transmitted infections represented 71.6% of all diagnoses, followed by inflammatory diseases (9.8%) and bites/envenomations (4.6%). The three most frequent conditions were scabies, abscesses, and impetigo. Besides scabies, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) were still prevalent as we reported 13 cases of leprosy and 63 cutaneous leishmaniasis. Atopic dermatitis (AD) represented only 2.5% of our diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS With the exception of AD, which was less frequent among Maroons, these results are similar to those previously reported in Amerindians. Therefore, a common exposure to rainforest pathogens seems to induce a common spectrum of skin diseases dominated by infections. The high prevalence of NTDs requires specific public health actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Valentin
- Dermatology Department, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Florence Niemetzky
- Centres Délocalisés de Prévention et de Soins, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Melanie Gaillet
- Centres Délocalisés de Prévention et de Soins, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Celine Michaud
- Centres Délocalisés de Prévention et de Soins, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Aurel Carbunar
- Centres Délocalisés de Prévention et de Soins, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Magalie Demar
- Tropical Biome and Immunophysiopathology (TBIP), Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017-CIIL-Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Université de Guyane, Cayenne, French Guiana.,Laboratory of Parasitology, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Pierre Couppie
- Dermatology Department, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana.,Tropical Biome and Immunophysiopathology (TBIP), Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017-CIIL-Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Université de Guyane, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Romain Blaizot
- Dermatology Department, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana.,Tropical Biome and Immunophysiopathology (TBIP), Université de Lille, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017-CIIL-Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Université de Guyane, Cayenne, French Guiana
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Pupil size variation as a response to stress in European catfish and its application for social stress detection in albino conspecifics. PLoS One 2021; 15:e0244017. [PMID: 33382718 PMCID: PMC7775050 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormonal changes such as increased cortisol level in blood plasma in response to stress and social environmental stimuli are common among vertebrates including humans and typically accompanied by other physiological processes, such as changes in body pigmentation and/or pupil dilatation. The role of pupil size variation (PSV) as a response to stress have yet to be investigated in fish. We exposed albino and pigmented European catfish to short-term stress and measured changes in pupil size and cortisol level. Albinos showed lower pupil dilatation and higher cortisol levels than did pigmented conspecifics. A clear positive relationship between pupil dilatation and cortisol concentrations was observed for both pigmented and albino specimens, suggesting that PSV can be used as a stress indicator in fish, irrespective of albino’s inability to express social communication by coloring. During the follow-up, we investigated whether a penultimate contest between albino individuals would impact contestants’ social stress during subsequent contact. We observed PSV during the contact of unfamiliar albino catfish with different penultimate experiences (winner (W) and/or loser (L)). Then, the following treatment combinations were tested: WW, WL and LL. Twenty-four-hour contact of two unfamiliar catfish resulted in higher pupil dilatation among individuals with previous winner experience. Among treatment combinations, a WL contest displayed the highest pupil dilatation for winners. PSV reflected socially induced stress in individuals that was accompanied by the “winner” experience and dominancy in albinos. To conclude, the present study validates pupil dilatation as a non-invasive method to evaluate stress level in pigmented as well as albino fish in various contexts.
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Dunne JA, Cappuyns L, Kumiponjera D. Re: Regional incidence of and reconstructive management patterns in melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer of the head and neck: A 3-year analysis in the inpatient setting. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2020; 73:2239-2260. [PMID: 32826181 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2020.05.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Dunne
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK; Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Laura Cappuyns
- Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi; Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
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Saka B, Mouhari-Toure A, Adam S, Mahamadou G, Kassang P, Teclessou JN, Akakpo SA, Gnossikè P, Elegbede Y, Darré T, Kombaté K, Pitché P. Dermatological and epidemiological profile of patients with albinism in Togo in 2019: results of two consultation campaigns. Int J Dermatol 2020; 59:1076-1081. [PMID: 32720350 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.15069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with albinism (PWA) are targets of prejudice and social exclusion and have limited access to specialized medical care and resources. Our study aimed to describe the epidemiological and dermatological profile of PWA in Togo. METHOD We carried out a cross-sectional study of 294 medical records of PWA systematically examined during two mobile skin care clinics in 2019. RESULTS The mean age of the patients was 22 ± 16.5 years, and the gender ratio (M/F) was 1. A family history of albinism was reported in 27.9% of cases, and consanguinity between the parents was found in 24.1% of PWA. Dermatological lesions on physical examination were present in 95.2% of PWA. These lesions were elastosis/wrinkles (82.9%), ephelides (79.6%), actinic keratoses (60.0%), actinic cheilitis (50.0%), and cutaneous carcinomas (11.8%). The mean age of PWA with skin carcinomas was 38.6 years. Fifty-four cases of cutaneous carcinomas had been diagnosed (31 cases of basal cell carcinoma, 21 cases of squamous cell carcinoma, and 2 cases of Bowen's disease) and were located mainly in the cephalic region (61.1%) and upper limbs (27.8%). Cryotherapy and/or excisional biopsies were the treatments for premalignant and malignant lesions. All PWA were sensitized on sun protection. CONCLUSIONS This study shows the basic picture of dermatological characteristics of PWA with a high frequency of photo-induced lesions and skin cancers. The popularization and respect of photoprotection measures and regular skin examination of these PWA for early detection and management of lesions will reduce their morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayaki Saka
- Service de dermatolgie et IST, CHU Sylvanus Olympio, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
| | | | - Saliou Adam
- Service de Chirurgie Maxillo-faciale et Plastique, CHU Sylvanus Olympio, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
| | - Garba Mahamadou
- Service de dermatolgie et IST, CHU Sylvanus Olympio, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
| | - Panawè Kassang
- Service de dermatolgie et IST, CHU Sylvanus Olympio, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
| | | | - Séfako A Akakpo
- Service de dermatolgie et IST, CHU Sylvanus Olympio, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
| | | | - Yvette Elegbede
- Service de dermatolgie et IST, Centre Hospitalier Régional de Tomdè, Kara, Togo
| | - Tchin Darré
- Laboratoire d'anatomie et cytotologie pathologique, CHU Sylvanus Olympio, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
| | - Koussake Kombaté
- Service de dermatolgie et IST, CHU Campus Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
| | - Palokinam Pitché
- Service de dermatolgie et IST, CHU Sylvanus Olympio, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
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Wright CY, du Preez DJ, Millar DA, Norval M. The Epidemiology of Skin Cancer and Public Health Strategies for Its Prevention in Southern Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E1017. [PMID: 32041101 PMCID: PMC7037230 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17031017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Skin cancer is a non-communicable disease that has been underexplored in Africa, including Southern Africa. Exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is an important, potentially modifiable risk factor for skin cancer. The countries which comprise Southern Africa are Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Swaziland. They differ in population size and composition and experience different levels of solar UVR. Here, the epidemiology and prevalence of skin cancer in Southern African countries are outlined. Information is provided on skin cancer prevention campaigns in these countries, and evidence sought to support recommendations for skin cancer prevention, especially for people with fair skin, or oculocutaneous albinism or HIV-AIDS who are at the greatest risk. Consideration is given to the possible impacts of climate change on skin cancer in Southern Africa and the need for adaptation and human behavioural change is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caradee Y. Wright
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa;
| | - D. Jean du Preez
- Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa;
- LACy, Laboratoire de l’Atmosphère et des Cyclones (UMR 8105 CNRS, Université de La Réunion, Météo-France), 97744 Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
| | - Danielle A. Millar
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Mary Norval
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh EH8 9AG UK;
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Albinism: epidemiology, genetics, cutaneous characterization, psychosocial factors. An Bras Dermatol 2019; 94:503-520. [PMID: 31777350 PMCID: PMC6857599 DOI: 10.1016/j.abd.2019.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Oculocutaneous albinism is an autosomal recessive disease caused by the complete absence or decrease of melanin biosynthesis in melanocytes. Due to the reduction or absence of melanin, albinos are highly susceptible to the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation and are at increased risk of actinic damage and skin cancer. In Brazil, as in other parts of the world, albinism remains a little known disorder, both in relation to epidemiological data and to phenotypic and genotypic variation. In several regions of the country, individuals with albinism have no access to resources or specialized medical care, and are often neglected and deprived of social inclusion. Brazil is a tropical country, with a high incidence of solar radiation during the year nationwide. Consequently, actinic damage and skin cancer occur early and have a high incidence in this population, often leading to premature death. Skin monitoring of these patients and immediate therapeutic interventions have a positive impact in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. Health education is important to inform albinos and their families, the general population, educators, medical professionals, and public agencies about the particularities of this genetic condition. The aim of this article is to present a review of the epidemiological, clinical, genetic, and psychosocial characteristics of albinism, with a focus in skin changes caused by this rare pigmentation disorder.
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Zungu Z, Mashige KP. Utilisation of eye and skin care, and social services among persons with albinism in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. AFRICAN VISION AND EYE HEALTH 2019. [DOI: 10.4102/aveh.v78i1.484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Knowledge of the utilisation of eye and skin care, and social services among persons with albinism is essential for planning intervention strategies for this group.Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the utilisation of eye and skin care, and social services among persons with albinism in the Ulundi Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa.Setting: The Ulundi Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.Methods: The cross-sectional survey used a questionnaire to collect data from 21 participants living with albinism. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted in small peer groups.Results: The participants (n = 21; males 8 and females 13) were aged 4 to 60 years (mean = 24.5 ± 17.9 years). All participants reported that they had their eyes tested within the last two years by an optometrist and none by an ophthalmologist. Almost half (42.9%) had never used a low vision device, this being because of their non-availability (44.4%), financial constraints (33.3%) and lack of or poor awareness (22.2%). Participants reported wearing a wide-brimmed hat (47.6%), a combination of wide-brimmed-hats and sunglasses (33.3%) for eye protection and 19% reported using neither. All the participants reported that they used sunscreen with sun protection factor and 90.5% reported using long-sleeved shirts for skin protection. The majority (81%) of participants reported receiving the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) social (visual disability) grant, with 85.7% knowing where the SASSA offices were located.Conclusion: Despite the poor use of low vision aids, the level of utilisation of eye and skin care, and other social services among participants was good.
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9
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Corn AL, Lusk KE. Reports from Parents about Medical and Low Vision Services for Their Children with Albinism: An Analysis. JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT & BLINDNESS 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/0145482x1811200602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction The purpose of this study was to gain information from parents in the United States about their children with albinism. The article focuses on information and services related to medical care and low vision care. Methods An online questionnaire was used to collect data, and parents had opportunities to submit additional information. One hundred ninety-two families, representing 223 children with albinism from 40 U.S. states, completed surveys. Results A snapshot of the data indicates that for 8.6 out of 10 families, there were no known relatives with the condition; 55.8% of the children had visual acuities that met the criteria for legal blindness in the United States; and 48% of the children using optical devices had received clinical low vision evaluations by optometrists or ophthalmologists who specialized in low vision. Implications for practitioners The data gathered suggest recommendations for medical service providers, including clinical low vision specialists who perform evaluations for improving the functional use of vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne L. Corn
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati,
and professor emerita, Departments of Special Education, Ophthalmology and Visual
Sciences, Vanderbilt University
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Wright CY, Lucas RM, D'Este C, Kapwata T, Kunene Z, Swaminathan A, Mathee A, Albers PN. Effect of A Sun Protection Intervention on the Immune Response to Measles Booster Vaccination in Infants in Rural South Africa. Photochem Photobiol 2018; 95:446-452. [PMID: 30155904 DOI: 10.1111/php.13004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of many serious childhood infections can be reduced by vaccination. High sun exposure at the time of vaccination has been associated with a reduced antigen-specific immune response. We hypothesized that providing sun protection advice and equipment to mothers of children who were waiting to be vaccinated would result in a more robust immunization response. We conducted a pilot study in 2015/2016 (data analyzed in 2017-2018) among 98 Black African children (~18 months of age) receiving the booster measles vaccination at two clinics in South Africa. Clinics were randomized to receive (or not) sun protection advice and equipment. We recorded demographic information on children and mothers and data on the child's usual sun exposure. At approximately 4 weeks' postmeasles vaccination, we measured measles immunoglobulin G levels in children. All children with blood results (n = 87, 89%) across both groups had antibody titers higher than 200 mIU mL-1 which was considered the protective antibody concentration. There was no statistically significant difference in titers between groups: geometric difference in mean titers 1.13 mIU mL-1 (95% CI 0.85, 1.51; P = 0.39) and 1.38 mIU mL-1 (95% CI 0.90, 2.11, P = 0.14) for unadjusted and adjusted analyses, respectively. This study demonstrated that a sun protection intervention study could be performed in a developing-world pediatric vaccination setting. Although the sun protection intervention around the time of vaccination was not associated with a higher antibody level, given the potential importance of such an effect, a larger study should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caradee Y Wright
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Robyn M Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Catherine D'Este
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Thandi Kapwata
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Zamantimande Kunene
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ashwin Swaminathan
- Department of General Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Angela Mathee
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Community Medicine, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Environmental Health Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patricia N Albers
- Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Moorthie S, Blencowe H, W Darlison M, Lawn JE, Mastroiacovo P, Morris JK, Modell B. An overview of concepts and approaches used in estimating the burden of congenital disorders globally. J Community Genet 2017; 9:347-362. [PMID: 29022220 PMCID: PMC6167265 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-017-0335-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital disorders are an important cause of pregnancy loss, premature death and life-long disability. A range of interventions can greatly reduce their burden, but the absence of local epidemiological data on their prevalence and the impact of interventions impede policy and service development in many countries. In an attempt to overcome these deficiencies, we have developed a tool—The Modell Global Database of Congenital Disorders (MGDb) that combines general biological principles and available observational data with demographic data, to generate estimates of the birth prevalence and effects of interventions on mortality and disability due to congenital disorders. MGDb aims to support policy development by generating country, regional and global epidemiological estimates. Here we provide an overview of the concepts and methodological approach used to develop MGDb.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hannah Blencowe
- Centre for Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive, and Child Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew W Darlison
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Genetics, Centre for Health Informatics and Multiprofessional Education (CHIME), University College London, London, UK.
| | - Joy E Lawn
- Centre for Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive, and Child Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Pierpaolo Mastroiacovo
- Coordinating Centre of the International Clearinghouse for Birth Defects Surveillance and Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Joan K Morris
- Centre for Environmental and Preventive Medicine, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Bernadette Modell
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Genetics, Centre for Health Informatics and Multiprofessional Education (CHIME), University College London, London, UK
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Kunene Z, Albers PN, Lucas RM, Banwell C, Mathee A, Wright CY. 'My child did not like using sun protection': practices and perceptions of child sun protection among rural black African mothers. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:677. [PMID: 28841823 PMCID: PMC5574151 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4688-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Photodamage is partially mitigated by darker skin pigmentation, but immune suppression, photoaging and cataracts occur among individuals with all skin types. METHODS To assess practices and acceptability to Black African mothers of sun protection equipment for their children living in a rural area, participants were recruited at the time of their child's 18-month vaccinations. Mothers completed a baseline questionnaire on usual sun behaviours and sun protection practices. They were then provided with sun protection equipment and advice. A follow-up questionnaire was administered two weeks later. RESULTS Mothers reported that during the week prior to the baseline questionnaire, children spent on average less than 1 hour of time outdoors (most often spent in the shade). Most mothers (97%) liked the sun protection equipment. However, many (78 of 86) reported that their child did not like any of the sun protection equipment and two-thirds stated that the sun protection equipment was not easy to use. CONCLUSIONS Among Black Africans in rural northern South Africa, we found a mismatch between parental preferences and child acceptance for using sun protection when outdoors. A better understanding of the health risks of incidental excess sun exposure and potential benefits of sun protection is required among Black Africans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zamantimande Kunene
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patricia N. Albers
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, 1 Soutpansberg Road, Private Bag x385, Pretoria, 0001 South Africa
| | - Robyn M. Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Cathy Banwell
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Angela Mathee
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Caradee Y. Wright
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, 1 Soutpansberg Road, Private Bag x385, Pretoria, 0001 South Africa
- Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Li Y, Geng X, Bao L, Elaswad A, Huggins KW, Dunham R, Liu Z. A deletion in the Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome 4 (Hps4) gene appears to be responsible for albinism in channel catfish. Mol Genet Genomics 2017; 292:663-670. [DOI: 10.1007/s00438-017-1302-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Vitamin D Status and Its Consequences for Health in South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13101019. [PMID: 27763570 PMCID: PMC5086758 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13101019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In this review, reports were retrieved in which vitamin D status, as assessed by serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels, was measured in South African population groups with varied skin colours and ethnicities. Healthy children and adults were generally vitamin D-sufficient [25(OH)D level >50 nmol/L] but the majority of those aged above 65 years were deficient. A major role for exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in determining 25(OH)D levels was apparent, with the dietary contribution being minor. Limited data exist regarding the impact of recent changes in lifestyles on vitamin D status, such as urbanisation. With regard to disease susceptibility, 11 of 22 relevant publications indicated association between low 25(OH)D levels and disease, with deficiency most notably found in individuals with tuberculosis and HIV-1. Information on the relationship between vitamin D receptor variants and ethnicity, disease or treatment response in the South African population groups demonstrated complex interactions between genetics, epigenetics and the environment. Whether vitamin D plays an important role in protection against the range of diseases that currently constitute a large burden on the health services in South Africa requires further investigation. Only then can accurate advice be given about personal sun exposure or dietary vitamin D supplementation.
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Lucas RM, Norval M, Wright CY. Solar ultraviolet radiation in Africa: a systematic review and critical evaluation of the health risks and use of photoprotection. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2016; 15:10-23. [DOI: 10.1039/c5pp00419e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The majority of the African continent experiences high solar UVB radiation throughout the year. The adverse consequences of this on the health of populations living in Africa are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn M. Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health
- The Australia National University
- Canberra
- Australia
| | - Mary Norval
- Biomedical Sciences
- University of Edinburgh
- Edinburgh
- UK
| | - Caradee Y. Wright
- South African Medical Research Council and University of Pretoria
- Pretoria
- South Africa
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16
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17
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Gohara
- Department of Dermatology; Yale New Haven Hospital; Danbury CT 06811 U.S.A
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18
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Wright CY, Norval M, Hertle RW. Oculocutaneous albinism in sub-Saharan Africa: adverse sun-associated health effects and photoprotection. Photochem Photobiol 2014; 91:27-32. [PMID: 25298350 DOI: 10.1111/php.12359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a genetically inherited autosomal recessive condition. Individuals with OCA lack melanin and therefore are susceptible to the harmful effects of solar ultraviolet radiation, including extreme sun sensitivity, photophobia and skin cancer. OCA is a grave public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa with a prevalence as high as 1 in 1000 in some tribes. This article considers the characteristics and prevalence of OCA in sub-Saharan African countries. Sun-induced adverse health effects in the skin and eyes of OCA individuals are reviewed. Sun exposure behavior and the use of photoprotection for the skin and eyes are discussed to highlight the major challenges experienced by these at-risk individuals and how these might be best resolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caradee Y Wright
- Climate Studies, Modelling and Environmental Health Research Group, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, South Africa; Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Simeonov DR, Wang X, Wang C, Sergeev Y, Dolinska M, Bower M, Fischer R, Winer D, Dubrovsky G, Balog JZ, Huizing M, Hart R, Zein WM, Gahl WA, Brooks BP, Adams DR. DNA variations in oculocutaneous albinism: an updated mutation list and current outstanding issues in molecular diagnostics. Hum Mutat 2013; 34:827-35. [PMID: 23504663 DOI: 10.1002/humu.22315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a rare genetic disorder of melanin synthesis that results in hypopigmented hair, skin, and eyes. There are four types of OCA caused by mutations in TYR (OCA-1), OCA2 (OCA-2), TYRP1 (OCA-3), or SLC45A2 (OCA-4). Here we report 22 novel mutations in the OCA genes; 14 from a cohort of 61 patients seen as part of the NIH OCA Natural History Study and eight from a prior study at the University of Minnesota. We also include a comprehensive list of almost 600 previously reported OCA mutations along with ethnicity information, carrier frequencies, and in silico pathogenicity predictions as a supplement. In addition to discussing the clinical and molecular features of OCA, we address the cases of apparent missing heritability. In our cohort, 26% of patients did not have two mutations in a single OCA gene. We demonstrate the utility of multiple detection methods to reveal mutations missed by Sanger sequencing. Finally, we review the TYR p.R402Q temperature-sensitive variant and confirm its association with cases of albinism with only one identifiable TYR mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitre R Simeonov
- National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Wright CY, Norval M, Summers B, Davids L, Coetzee G, Oriowo MO. The impact of solar ultraviolet radiation on human health in sub-Saharan Africa. S AFR J SCI 2012. [DOI: 10.4102/sajs.v108i11/12.1245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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21
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Cruz-Inigo AE, Ladizinski B, Sethi A. Albinism in Africa: Stigma, Slaughter and Awareness Campaigns. Dermatol Clin 2011; 29:79-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.det.2010.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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