Is it true that gray hair is a warning sign of skin cancer?

(Dan Tri Newspaper) - New research suggests that gray hair may be the body's natural defense mechanism against melanoma, a dangerous type of skin cancer.

Many people try to hide gray hair, viewing it as a negative sign of aging. However, a new study published in the journal Nature Cell Biology has changed this perspective.

Stress can negatively affect DNA, causing aging and even cancer. (Illustrative image: Adobe Stock).

The natural color of hair is determined by melanin, a pigment produced by specialized cells called melanocytes. When our hair turns gray, it is due to a gradual decrease in melanocytes within the hair follicles.

Stem cells are special because they can self-replicate and develop into many different types of cells and tissues in the body. Melanocyte stem cells (McSCs) are found in hair follicles and can differentiate into melanocytes.

In this study, scientists from the University of Tokyo explored how melanocyte stem cells (McSCs) in hair follicles respond to DNA damage.

Accordingly, when the body is stressed, McSCs react in two ways: differentiation, causing hair to turn gray, or continued division, which can lead to tumor growth. Therefore, when your hair turns gray, it may be a sign that your body has avoided melanoma.

According to Professor Emi Nishimura, co-author of this study, there is a certain link between gray hair and melanoma. The research emphasizes that stress-induced differentiation leading to gray hair may protect the body from abnormal cells. This suggests that gray hair is not just a sign of aging but also a positive biological response of the body.

Additionally, the research team noted that further studies are needed to better understand the relationship between different types of skin cancer and gray hair.

Melanoma is considered the most dangerous type of skin cancer due to its high potential to metastasize to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

The risk of developing melanoma increases with age. The average age at which Americans are diagnosed with the disease is 66. However, the disease is also found in a significant number of people under 30, especially young women.

The risk is also higher in people with many moles, a personal or family history of melanoma, or who have had sunburns, especially as children. People who spend a lot of time outdoors may also be at higher risk due to increased sun exposure.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/su-that-toc-bac-canh-bao-nguy-co-ung-thu-da-20251030175604973.htm