Beyond the Hot Comb: Updates in Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Treatment of Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia from 2011 to 2021.

Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is a form of scarring alopecia that predominantly affects middle-aged women of African descent. Recent data suggest a multifactorial etiology of CCCA that is influenced by environmental and genetic factors. Emerging evidence regarding the genetic basis of the condition may elucidate new therapies. While topical and intralesional steroids and tetracycline antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment, refractory cases may be considered for hair transplantation. Emerging therapies using platelet-rich plasma, botanical formulas, and cosmetic procedures have shown promising results for the future management of CCA. As recent notable advances in CCCA have been achieved, this review provides an update on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of CCCA.

An Exploration of Precancer and Post-Cancer Diagnosis and Health Communication Among African American Prostate Cancer Survivors and Their Families.

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among American men, with Black men at the highest risk for the disease. Few studies have been published on how communication between Black prostate cancer survivors and their family members affect health outcomes and subsequent health communication. The purpose of this study was to understand cancer and health communication among Black prostate cancer survivors and their families before and after disclosing their diagnosis. Through a mixed method design, 11 Black prostate cancer survivors participated from the Southeastern region of the United States, completed questionnaires, and took part in a focus group. The study utilized 4 focus groups of Black prostate cancer survivors ranging in age from 51 to 76 years. Descriptive statistics revealed 91% (n = 10) of participants indicated they could openly discuss health issues in their family and 82% (n = 9) indicated a female relative as the person responsible for teaching about health. An analysis of the transcripts revealed four themes utilizing thematic network: (a) communication over the life course of the prostate cancer survivor, (b) parents' communication with family, (c) disclosing prostate cancer diagnosis, and (d) treatment options for prostate cancer. Results suggested the participants recognized the importance of discussing prostate cancer with their families to reduce fears and misconceptions about the disease. Through the exploration of cancer and health communication within Black families, solutions can be derived for increasing health behaviors and health knowledge among men.