The musical biopic Bob Marley: One Love—now streaming on Paramount+ and available for digital purchase on platforms like Apple TV+ and Prime Video—sheds light on the iconic reggae singer’s later years, including his self-imposed exile from Jamaica following a 1976 assassination attempt and his return for the historic One Love Peace Concert in 1978. But as Marley’s music continued to gain popularity throughout the world in the late ’70s, the star began facing a grim health diagnosis in private.
Doctors discovered Marley had acral lentiginous melanoma, a form of skin cancer, in 1977. The singer continued to perform and record music after his diagnosis, but the illness ultimately spread and took a severe physical toll on Marley, who refused a primary form of treatment.
Marley died from complications of cancer at the young age of 36 on May 11, 1981—leaving music fans to wonder what might have happened if Marley had made a different choice about his health. Here is what you need to know about his cancer diagnosis and how it affected the musician.
Understanding Acral Lentiginous Melanoma
Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is a rare type of skin cancer that primarily develops on non-sun-exposed areas, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or beneath the nails. This form of melanoma comprises only 5% of new melanoma diagnoses each year. Despite its rarity, it poses significant health risks, especially when diagnosed at later stages.
ALM is not typically associated with ultraviolet (UV) ray exposure because it occurs in areas usually shielded from sunlight. The exact cause of this type of melanoma remains unclear, though some patients report a history of trauma to the affected area. Factors such as genetics and pressure on the feet may also contribute to its development.
Diagnosis Journey
Marley was first diagnosed with ALM in July 1977, after seeking medical treatment for what he thought was an injury sustained while playing soccer. This misdiagnosis could have delayed necessary treatment, which is critical for melanoma survival. The singer's reluctance to seek continuous medical care further complicated his condition.
Upon diagnosis, doctors recommended amputation of the affected toe. However, Marley refused this treatment due to his Rastafarian beliefs, which prohibit surgical interventions. Instead, he opted for a less invasive procedure to remove some surrounding tissue, which proved insufficient in halting the cancer's progression.
Impact of Cancer on Marley’s Life
Despite his diagnosis, Marley continued to perform and tour, showcasing his resilience and dedication to his craft. However, the physical toll of the disease was evident, and he started to experience significant health declines. The lack of follow-up appointments allowed the cancer to metastasize, complicating his condition further.
While chemotherapy was an option, it often proved ineffective for melanoma. Marley sought treatment at various clinics, including the prestigious Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Unfortunately, as the cancer spread to his lungs, brain, and liver, the prognosis became increasingly dire.
Final Months and Legacy
In the fall of 1980, Marley collapsed during a jog in Central Park, leading to the realization that his cancer had spread significantly. After receiving radiation therapy to manage tumors, he continued to perform, but his condition worsened. His final concert was on September 23, 1980, in Pittsburgh, marking an emotional farewell to fans.
Marley's battle with cancer lasted eight months after his collapse, during which he sought alternative treatments in Germany. Eventually, he decided to return to Jamaica but faced a medical emergency during the flight, resulting in an emergency landing in Miami. He died shortly thereafter at Cedars of Lebanon Hospital.
Marley's passing left a profound impact on his fans and the world of music. His state funeral in Jamaica saw hundreds of thousands mourning his loss, and he continues to be remembered as one of the most influential musicians in history. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of health awareness and medical care.
Key Takeaways from Bob Marley’s Journey
What You Will Learn
- Understanding acral lentiginous melanoma and its unique characteristics.
- The importance of timely diagnosis and treatment for skin cancers.
- How personal beliefs can influence medical decisions and treatment outcomes.
- The impact of cancer on the life and legacy of an iconic musician like Bob Marley.
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