There is a common misconception among both doctors and patients that individuals with darker skin are immune from developing skin cancer. While it is true that the additional melanin in the skin of persons of color does provide some protection against the sun’s ultraviolet rays, a person of any color or ethnicity can develop skin cancer. Detection of a sore that won’t heal and new growths is key to combating skin cancer.
Factors That Affect Skin Cancer Risk:
The primary risk factor for skin cancer is excessive sun exposure; however, genetics and environmental influences can also increase an individual’s risk of developing skin malignancies. For example, a person’s ethnicity may predispose them to particular types of skin malignancies. Latinos and persons of Asian descent are more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma while African-Americans and Asian Indians are more prone to squamous cell carcinoma. People with dark skin are also more likely to develop a particularly virulent form of melanoma known as acral lentiginous melanoma, which normally develops on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands. Skin malignancies also tend to be diagnosed much later in persons of color, which means that they are typically far more advanced and have a higher mortality rate.
How to Reduce the Risk of Skin Malignancies:
Individuals of all skin tones and ethnicities should perform monthly self-examinations of your skin and notice any abnormal changes. Pre-cancerous lesions that do not heal, that bleed easily, or that ooze or crust over may be symptoms of basal cell carcinoma. Growths, ulcers, and sores that develop near scars from other injuries may indicate squamous cell carcinoma. Melanomas typically appear as new or changing moles. These spots will typically be asymmetrical, have ragged or uneven borders, change in color, are often bigger than typical moles, and may change over time. Growths on the palms, soles of the feet, mucous membranes, or under the nails may be a sign of acral lentiginous melanoma. An individual experiencing any of these symptoms should see board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Tony Nakhla, as soon as possible. Learn about skin cancer prevention and treatment at OC Skin Institute today.