It is a common misconception that people with darker skin tones are immune to skin cancer. It is important that individuals with skin of colour conduct monthly skin examinations and are aware of the types, signs and symptoms of the various types of skin cancer and the locations that they are more likely to develop.
The term ’skin of colour’ refers to diverse skin colours, which includes people of Asian, African, Latino, Middle Eastern and Native American descent. To varying degrees people with skin of colour produce more melanin which protects the deeper layers of the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. This natural protection is the reason why the incidence of skin cancer is lower in people of colour (POC) when compared with whites, and the reason why there are misconceptions around skin cancer immunity, particularly in dark or black skin.
However, skin cancer does not discriminate, it can occur in all populations whatever their skin colour.
There are two main types of non-melanoma skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Basal cell carcinoma is the most commonly diagnosed cancer not only in Caucasians, but also in Hispanics, Chinese, Japanese and other Asian populations. Squamous cell carcinoma – a more invasive form of non-melanoma skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed skin cancer among African Americans and Asian Indians.
Whilst melanoma is less common in people with dark skin as it’s not related to sun exposure, it is often associated with greater morbidity and mortality. This is because of the general misconception that people with darker skin tones are at low, or no risk of skin cancer and because the early signs and symptoms are often more difficult to detect.
When melanoma does occur, the most common places a tumour may develop include areas of lighter skin, such as:
Install the Skcin app on your mobile device to access all the tools and resources you need to confidently perform full-body skin examinations, set monthly reminders, and track lesions for signs of change using close-up photography.
The Skcin app is a comprehensive, educational, and self-management tool dedicated to the prevention and early detection of skin cancer. The app comprises six key service areas to help you learn more and take charge of your skin health and surveillance.
