In more melanated skin, atopic dermatitis may appear differently compared to white skin. Instead of the classic red, inflamed patches, impacted areas may look darker, ashy, or develop a rough, thickened texture due to scratching. Because of these differences, atopic dermatitis in people of color is frequently misdiagnosed or mistaken for other skin conditions, leading to delays in proper treatment.

If left untreated, AD can significantly impact daily life, causing sleep disturbances, emotional distress, and even increasing the risk of infections due to constant scratching. The burden is even greater for African Americans, who may face barriers such as limited access to dermatologists familiar with treating darker skin tones.

What is Prurigo Nodularis?

PN is a lesser-known but equally distressing skin condition that leads to itchy, hard nodules on the skin as well as significant inflammatory and nervous system involvement. Unlike AD, which is primarily driven by immune system dysfunction, PN results from an exaggerated nerve response which leads to the physical symptoms. This neurological component makes PN particularly difficult to manage, as traditional treatments may not fully address the underlying nerve dysfunction.

African Americans are three to four times more likely to develop PN than other racial groups. Like AD, PN in darker skin may be misdiagnosed due to differences in how it presents, and the chronic itch and discomfort can make daily activities unbearable, often leading to severe sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression.

PN is also similar to AD in that many people suffer for years without understanding the cause of their symptoms, often resorting to home remedies or ineffective treatments.

Embrace Your Skin Health Journey

For many people, living with a chronic skin condition like AD or PN can feel isolating. If you’ve felt alone in your journey with AD or PN, know that support is available. Many others share your experience, and resources exist to help you find answers and relief.

The first step in managing these chronic skin conditions is getting the proper diagnosis. If you or someone you love experiences persistent itching, skin discoloration, or raised nodules, it’s important to see a dermatologist, preferably one with experience treating skin of color. Early intervention can prevent complications and help improve quality of life.

Other key steps you can take to kick off your journey to better skin health include utilizing recommended and available treatment options, keeping skin moisturized, and utilizing techniques that can help minimize itching and discomfort.

Raising Awareness and Expanding Resources

The lack of awareness surrounding AD and PN in the Black community contributes to ongoing disparities in diagnosis and treatment. By increasing visibility, spreading awareness, ensuring better access to care, and advocating for research that includes diverse populations, we can help bridge these gaps and empower others in our communities to take control of their skin health.

Click here to listen to a firsthand account of what it’s like to live with PN.

For more information and support and to learn more about treatment options, clinical trials, and other members of the AD/PN community visit:

National Eczema Association: https://nationaleczema.org

Understand AD: https://www.understandad.com

PN Exposed: https://www.pnexposed.com

References:

https://www.understandad.com

https://www.pnexposed.com

https://nationaleczema.org

One of the most significant contributors to obesity is genetics. Your genes can influence your susceptibility to weight gain by affecting factors like metabolism, fat storage, and how the body regulates hunger and feeling full. In fact, there are at least 15 genes that have been linked to obesity.

Your genetics don’t guarantee you will develop obesity but can make it more difficult to lose weight or maintain weight loss, even with lifestyle changes. This genetic component highlights the importance of considering medical intervention and underscores why obesity is not merely a matter of willpower or discipline.

Sleep

In today’s fast-paced society, lack of sleep is common and often overlooked as a contributor to obesity. However, poor sleep is a risk factor in weight gain. Experts recommend you get at least seven hours of sleep at night, which may seem unattainable for some.

However, if you don’t get enough sleep, the body can experience hormonal imbalances. Sleep-deprived individuals tend to have higher levels of the hormone that stimulate hunger and lower levels of the hormone that signals fullness. This can lead to increased appetite and cravings for unhealthy foods.

Stress

Stress is another powerful factor contributing to obesity. When the body is under stress it releases hormones that control energy and hunger. Chronic stress leads to persistently elevated cortisol levels, which can stimulate appetite, particularly for unhealthy foods. Over time, this can result in weight gain, creating a cycle that can be hard to break without targeted intervention.

Medications and Other Health Conditions

Certain medications and health conditions can also contribute to obesity.

The following medications may cause but do not guarantee weight gain:

• Certain antidepressants
• Certain antipsychotics
• Prolonged steroid use
• Some forms of birth control

Additionally, some diabetes and hypertension treatments such as insulin and beta blockers can cause weight gain as a side effect.

These medications may alter metabolism, increase appetite, or lead to fluid retention, all of which can contribute to weight gain.

Conditions such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and Cushing’s syndrome are known to interfere with metabolism and can lead to obesity, even in individuals who maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle.

The Role of Clinical Trials

As our understanding of the root causes of obesity deepens, so does the potential for more effective treatment options. Clinical trials are a critical part of this process, providing the discovery of new medications and therapies. For those struggling with obesity, participating in a clinical trial may offer access to investigational treatments that are not yet available to the general public.

Clinical trials represent hope for new obesity treatments. Consider exploring the investigational treatments available through clinical trial participation and click here to learn more.

References:

NIH. NIDDK. Factors Affecting Weight and Health

NHLBI. Overweight and Obesity – Causes and Risk Factors

Excess weight can be caused by obesity. Obesity is characterized by the presence of excess body fat, hormonal disruption, and associated with many other health conditions. It can be more challenging to lose weight when you have obesity because your body fights the processes that aid in Keeping your body weight at a healthy level.

Healthy weight loss typically involves losing 1 to 2 pounds per week. Since healthy weight loss is a gradual progress, it can sometimes feel discouraging when the numbers on the scale aren’t changing quickly. Noticeable results early in the process are often a source of motivation to continue lifestyle changes. However, it is important to adopt lifestyle changes that not only lead to weight loss but can also health benefits that be maintained over the long term. Identifying some challenges associated with maintaining weight loss can promote a successful weight loss journey.

Challenge #1: Slowed Metabolism

After losing weight, the body often responds by slowing down its metabolism, which means it burns less energy ( or fewer calories).. This is a natural process but can make it more difficult to maintain weight loss because the body requires fewer calories to maintain its new weight.

Challenge #2: Increased Hunger Hormones

Weight loss can trigger changes in hunger hormones like leptin and ghrelin, which may increase appetite and cravings. This biological response can make it harder to stick to healthy eating patterns and can lead to overeating or weight regain.

Challenge #3: Mental Burnout

Sustaining the mental effort required for long-term weight management can lead to burnout. The ongoing work and effort needed to track food intake, exercise, and manage emotions around eating can be exhausting, leading some people to give up or revert to old habits.

Challenge #4: Environmental Pressures

Maintaining weight loss often requires resisting social pressures, such as eating out, overindulging in celebratory foods, high stress levels, and time constraints that make it harder to exercise or get enough sleep. Over time, it can become challenging to balance a healthy lifestyle with the demands and temptations of everyday life.

Each of these challenges requires ongoing effort, but with the right mindset and strategies, they can be managed effectively.

Four focus areas for obesity treatment that can sustain weight loss long-term include physical activity, behavior including mental health and lifestyle modification, diet, and medical

interventions such as prescription medication or bariatric surgery. or other treatments (if appropriate). Your healthcare provider or an obesity specialist can help come up with a comprehensive plan personalized for your needs.

Overcoming Challenges

Ready to take control of your weight long-term? You can overcome challenges to maintaining weight loss by taking actionable steps such as increasing physical activity, eating nutritionally balanced meals, monitoring your dietary intake by keeping a food diary, and seeking support from those around you.

Maintaining weight loss is a complex journey that often requires more than willpower alone. As highlighted in this article, the challenges of sustaining long-term weight loss can make it difficult to achieve lasting success without support. Treatment for biological causes of excess weight such as obesity may be needed.

For some, participating in clinical trials may offer an opportunity to access investigational treatments and interventions designed to support weight management. Whether you’re a patient or caregiver, consider talking to your provider about whether joining a clinical trial might be the next step in your weight management journey. Click here to learn more about joining a clinical trial.

References:

Hall KD, Kahan S. Maintenance of Lost Weight and Long-Term Management of Obesity.

CDC. Tips for Keeping Weight Off.

Obesity Medicine Association. (2023). Four pillars of obesity management. Obesity Medicine Association. https://obesitymedicine.org/about/four-pillars/

While BMI is a simple and widely-used tool, it has its limitations. For instance, it doesn’t account for differences in muscle mass, fat distribution, or overall body composition. An athlete with high muscle mass might have a high BMI but very little body fat, while someone with a lower BMI could still carry excess fat around vital organs, which can be just as harmful.

When it comes to race specifically, there are differences among racial and ethnic groups. BMI may not equally reflect body composition or health risks across all groups. This is why diagnosing obesity involves more than just stepping on a scale.

Waist Circumference and Body Fat Distribution

Another important factor in diagnosing obesity is waist circumference, which provides insight into where fat is distributed in the body. Abdominal fat, or visceral fat, is particularly dangerous because it surrounds internal organs and increases the risk of conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. Measuring waist circumference helps identify individuals at higher risk, even if their BMI falls within a normal or overweight range.

A waist circumference of more than 40 inches for men and more than 35 inches for women, is considered indicative of higher health risks. This measurement, combined with BMI, can give healthcare providers a clearer picture of a person’s metabolic health and health risks, beyond what body weight alone can reveal.

Other Diagnostic Tools: Body Composition Analysis

In some cases, healthcare professionals may use more advanced diagnostic tools to assess obesity. Body composition analysis, for example, is a method that can measure the percentage of fat, muscle, and bone in a person’s body.

These tests provide a more detailed understanding of body fat distribution and overall health risks associated with obesity. For instance, they can help distinguish between subcutaneous fat

(the fat under the skin) and visceral fat (the fat around internal organs), offering a better assessment of an individual’s metabolic health.

Beyond Diagnosis: The Importance of Clinical Trials

While the clinical tools used to diagnose obesity are helpful, the treatment of obesity remains a challenge for many people. Diet and exercise alone may not be enough to achieve and maintain significant weight loss and the health benefits after weight loss, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or genetic predispositions.

This is where clinical trials come into play. Clinical trials are research studies that test new investigational treatments and therapies to determine their safety and effectiveness. For those diagnosed with obesity.

If you’ve been diagnosed with obesity, a clinical trial may be a viable option, consider exploring the clinical trials available to you and click here to learn more.

References:

NIH. NIDDK. Symptoms and Diagnosis

NIDDK. Definition & Facts for Adult Overweight and Obesity

Among African Americans face even more difficulties such as chronic stress levels, impact of systemic racism on social determinants of health, and more, but the good news is that medical interventions and ongoing research are investigating new treatments.

Why Obesity Is Considered Chronic

Obesity is categorized as a chronic condition because it typically develops and persists over time, often requiring ongoing treatment. A person’s body weight is regulated by a complex system involving many different parts of the body such as the brain, hormones, and the digestive system. Disruptions to this system can lead to the development of obesity. For example, when the brain’s ability to regulate hunger and fullness is impaired, it can lead to overeating.

Many people who struggle with obesity have an underlying genetic predisposition, meaning their genes and family history play a role in their likelihood of struggling with obesity. Research has shown that certain genes can affect metabolism, fat storage, and how the body responds to hunger and satiety signals. This means that for some individuals, even small amounts of excess calories can lead to significant weight gain, making obesity harder to control without medical intervention.

In addition to genetic factors, there are environmental and psychological contributors to obesity. Living in environments where unhealthy foods are more accessible and affordable than healthy options, or where physical activity is limited, can contribute to the development of obesity. African Americans specifically face unique challenges such as restricted access to healthy food options, lack of access to medication and insurance, and cultural body image preferences.

The Health Risks of Obesity

Obesity increases the risk of several serious health conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and certain cancers. Additionally, it can lead to joint problems, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease. These conditions often require long-term medical management and can reduce both life expectancy and quality of life.

Given the multiple health risks associated with obesity, it’s critical to approach it with the same seriousness as other chronic diseases. This means going beyond blaming a person’s behavior and instead recognizing the need for comprehensive treatment strategies, including medications, surgery, and psychological support.

The Role of Clinical Trials in Obesity Treatment

As our understanding of obesity as a chronic condition continues to expand, so does the potential for new treatments. Clinical trials play a pivotal role in advancing obesity care.

Mistrust in clinical trials in our communities stems from a history of unethical medical practices. This mistrust has led to skepticism about participating in clinical trials. However, trials are now highly monitored. Diversity in clinical trials is essential for developing treatments that work for everyone, especially the African American community which is often underrepresented in trials.

By participating in clinical trials, you may receive investigational treatments. While obesity is a complex disease with no simple solutions, clinical trials may offer hope. If you are living with obesity, consider learning more about clinical trials. Click here to learn more.

References:

OMH. Obesity and African Americans.

CDC. Adult Obesity Facts.

Eczema can look different on darker skin tones compared to lighter skin, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. For example, eczema often appears red and inflamed on light skin, but may look darker, ashy, or even purplish on darker skin. This difference in appearance can lead to misdiagnosis, underdiagnosis, or a lack of recognition of the condition’s severity. Showing images of how eczema looks on darker skin can make a significant difference in early diagnosis and treatment.

Click here to access examples of how eczema appears on various skin tones.

Access to Specialized Care

Studies suggest that Black individuals are less likely to receive adequate dermatological care. This disparity is partly due to systemic issues such as a lack of access to specialists, financial barriers, and racial bias in the healthcare system. Some healthcare providers may be less familiar with how eczema presents on darker skin, making it more difficult to properly diagnose and treat the condition.

Cultural Perceptions

In some Black communities, skin conditions like eczema may be misunderstood or stigmatized. Cultural myths, such as associating dry skin with poor hygiene or not moisturizing enough, can discourage people from seeking medical advice. As a result, many people may attempt to manage eczema at home using over-the-counter products or home remedies that don’t fully address the underlying causes and may make the condition worse.

The Importance of Representation in Dermatology

Eczema awareness campaigns and medical education often focus on how the condition presents in lighter skin tones. This lack of representation in educational materials and media leaves many people of color feeling excluded or unaware that they may have eczema.

Dermatology training must emphasize how skin conditions like eczema manifest in diverse populations. This helps ensure that healthcare providers receive adequate training on diagnosing and treating skin conditions in people of color.

Managing Eczema: What You Need to Know

Living with eczema can be challenging, especially for those who are unaware of the full range of treatment options available. Managing eczema requires a combination of medical care, self-care strategies, and ongoing awareness of potential triggers.

• Treatments: Eczema treatments for some patients include topical corticosteroids, emollients, and antihistamines to manage symptoms. And in some cases, immunosuppressive drugs or biologics may also be recommended. It’s important to consult a dermatologist who is familiar with skin of color to receive tailored treatment options.
• Moisturizing and Hydration: Maintaining skin hydration is essential for preventing flare-ups. Use thick moisturizers or ointments, particularly those formulated for sensitive skin. It’s important to moisturize regularly, especially after bathing, to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier.
• Avoiding Triggers: Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by various factors such as harsh soaps, fragrances, allergens, stress, and certain fabrics. Identifying and avoiding these triggers can help reduce flare-ups. It’s also helpful to keep a journal to track potential irritants and environmental factors.

Raising Awareness

By fostering better understanding, improving representation in healthcare, and creating resources specifically for Black individuals with eczema, we can promote better outcomes and improve the quality of life for those living with this condition.

Eczema is not just a cosmetic issue. It can significantly impact physical and emotional well-being. With increased awareness and better education, we can break down barriers and raise eczema awareness. Click here to learn more about eczema and get involved.

References:

NIH. Racial Disparities in Dermatology.

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. What is Type 2 Inflammation?

Eczema causes dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin that can flare up due to various triggers, such as allergens, irritants, weather changes, and stress. In children, eczema often appears on the cheeks, scalp, arms, and legs but can occur anywhere on the body.

Because eczema is chronic, it requires consistent management rather than a one-time fix. For many parents, this journey can feel overwhelming. As Ms. Bryant puts it, “Being the parents of a child with eczema is an endless battle.” Yet, with the right approach, you can help your child live a comfortable, happy life.

Practical Tips for Parents: Managing Eczema

1. Establish a Skincare Routine
   A daily skincare routine is the cornerstone of eczema management. Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and lukewarm water for baths, limiting them to 10–15 minutes. After bathing, pat your child’s skin dry and immediately apply a thick moisturizer or ointment to lock in hydration.
   Look for products labeled “hypoallergenic” or “for sensitive skin.” For severe dryness, consult your child’s doctor about using medicated creams or ointments.
2. Avoid Triggers
   Identify and minimize your child’s exposure to eczema triggers. Common triggers include:
   • Harsh Soaps and Detergents: Use mild, fragrance-free laundry detergents and avoid fabric softeners.
   • Environmental Allergens: Keep your home clean and dust-free. Use air purifiers if needed.
   • Clothing: Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, and avoid wool or synthetic materials that can irritate the skin.
3. Control Itching
   Itching is one of eczema’s most challenging symptoms. To help your child avoid scratching:
   • Keep their nails trimmed short to prevent skin damage.
   • Apply cold compresses to itchy areas for immediate relief.
4. Work Closely With Your Doctor
   Regular visits to a pediatrician or dermatologist are essential. They can help adjust treatments based on your child’s needs and recommend medications like topical steroids or newer options, such as biologics, for more severe cases.
   Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel your child’s condition isn’t being adequately addressed.
5. Support Your Child Emotionally
   Eczema can affect more than just your child’s skin; it can impact their self-esteem and social interactions. Reassure them that eczema is a common condition and not something to be ashamed of.

Caring for Yourself as a Caregiver

Caring for a child with eczema is a battle that you don’t have to fight alone. By establishing a consistent skincare routine, managing triggers, and staying informed, you can help your child lead a more comfortable life. Support groups and organizations like the National Eczema Association (NEA) can provide resources and connect you with other parents facing similar challenges. Click here to learn more.

References:

National Eczema Association

Global Parents for Eczema Research

Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance