A new study shows Latino men have a higher risk of developing Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS), an AIDS-related skin cancer, than any other ethnic group, according to a statement by the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, which conducted the study.

The skin cancer is caused by Kaposi’s sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV). The resulting lesions on the skin become life threatening when they spread to the lungs, liver or digestive tract. KS is commonly found in people living with HIV. When KS is detected in an HIV-positive person, it’s usually a sign the person has progressed to AIDS.

Researchers at the University of Texas found that Latino men are about 70 percent more likely to have a larger number of KSHV antibodies than any other ethnic group, meaning they are at higher risk for KS. According to study authors, this is an indication that Latino men are exposed more frequently and that KSHV is replicating more efficiently in their bodies.

It was unclear why Latino men are at higher risk for KS. The study was published in the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.

To read the UTHSCSA statement, click here.

To read more about KS, click here.