It’s a common misconception that people with darker skin tones are immune to skin cancer. Individuals of all skin types, from all ethnicities can develop skin cancer.
The term ’skin of colour’ refers to diverse skin colours which includes people of Asian, African, Latino, Middle Eastern and Native American descent.
Non-melanoma skin cancer in people with skin of colour:
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer not only in Caucasians, but also in Hispanics, Chinese, Japanese and other Asian populations. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) however, is the most commonly diagnosed skin cancer among African Americans and Asian Indians.
Melanoma skin cancer in people with skin of colour:
Whilst melanoma is less common in people with these skin types, it is unfortunately often associated with greater morbidity and mortality. This is because there is a general misconception that people with darker skin tones are immune to 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:
• Mucous membranes, such as inside the mouth
• Under the nails (subungual melanoma)
• The palms of the hands, the soles of the feet and the lower legs (acral lentiginous melanoma)
• The anogenital region (the area around the groin and anus)
It is imperative that all skin types check their skin regularly (once a month) for the early signs and symptoms of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer and seek immediate advice from a qualified healthcare practitioner with any concerns.
