Many people with darker skin tones believe they’re not at risk for skin cancer, but Dr. Lilian Thomas-Harris , an oncologist with Novant Health Cancer Institute - Mint Hill, said that’s a dangerous misconception.
Most skin cancers are linked to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds, and these damaging UV rays can affect anyone, that includes Black people and other people of color. Knowing how skin cancer presents on darker skin is key to catching it before it reaches an advanced stage.
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Everyone is at risk
While it’s true that those with dark skin are less susceptible to UV damage thanks to the greater amount of melanin (the protective pigment that gives skin and eyes their color) their skin produces, melanin alone isn’t enough to protect against skin cancer.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher and reapplying it every two hours or immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.
“Wearing sunscreen is not a top priority and it needs to be,” Thomas-Harris said. “Dark skin may not sunburn as easily, but there are still risks of skin damage from excessive UV exposure.”
Where you least expect
Melanomas (the most-deadly type of skin cancer) in African Americans, Asians, Filipinos, Indonesians and native Hawaiians most often occur on unexposed skin where less melanin is present and skin is lighter, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation,
Skin cancer can hide in places that get little sun, like the bottoms of your feet, palms of your hands, fingernails and toenails. Surprisingly, the bottom of the foot is where 30 to 40 percent of melanomas are diagnosed in people of color.
“Regularly check any existing moles and dark spots and look for new markings on your skin, paying special attention to areas that do not get a lot of sun exposure,” Thomas-Harris said.
Moles that are asymmetrical, more than one color, larger than a pencil eraser, have an irregular border or that have changed over time could be cause for concern, she said. If there are any changes or concerns about your skin, a dermatologist can determine if further testing is needed.