Skin cancer can affect people of every skin tone and skin type. Although skin cancer is often associated with fair skin, people with darker skin tones can also develop skin cancer. Understanding the signs of skin cancer and practicing sun protection are important for everyone.
Can People With Darker Skin Get Skin Cancer?
Yes. While melanin provides some natural protection against UV radiation, it does not eliminate the risk of skin cancer in darker skin tones. Certain types of skin cancer, including melanoma, can occur in people with Black, Brown, Asian, and other skin tones.
In people with darker skin, melanoma may develop in areas that receive less sun exposure, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and underneath the nails. This can sometimes make changes more difficult to notice.
What Are the Signs of Skin Cancer?
Knowing what is normal for your skin can help you recognize changes. Look for a new or changing mole, a spot that changes in size, shape, or colour, a sore that does not heal, or a lesion that bleeds, crusts, or repeatedly scabs.
Melanoma can appear differently across different skin tones, so it is important not to rely solely on redness or other changes that may be easier to see on lighter skin.
Protect Your Skin at Every Age
Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and shade can help reduce UV exposure. Most importantly, pay attention to new or changing spots and speak with a healthcare professional if you notice something unusual.
Skin cancer can affect every skin tone. Knowing your skin and checking it regularly can help you recognize changes early.
