It’s important to keep your skin health in check. After all, your skin is the largest organ in the human body. Melanoma, while rare among Black people, is often detected later with devastating consequences, a new study finds. Researchers found that this late skin cancer diagnosis increases their risk of death compared to fairer-skinned patients.
Early Signs of Melanoma and Skin Cancer
Dr. Hope Mitchell, founder and CEO of Mitchell Dermatology, emphasized that while melanoma is less common among Black women, it’s important to be aware of your skin.
“It’s crucial to be vigilant about checking non sun-exposed areas for this potentially deadly form of skin cancer,” she said.
Early signs of melanoma may include new or changing dark spots, particularly on the palms, soles, under the nails and in areas not commonly exposed to the sun. Keep an eye out for asymmetrical moles, irregular borders and varied colors within a single lesion. Any spot that is growing or itching is also something to be weary of.
It’s also important to monitor any sore that doesn’t heal or a mole that changes in size, shape or color.
“In people with darker skin tones, melanoma can occur in places where sun exposure is minimal,” Mitchell said. “Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks when concerns are noted is important.”
Common Factors That Damage Skin
Several factors can harm the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer for certain demographics of people. Mitchell explained that chronic sun exposure and ultraviolet radiation are the primary culprits that harm the skin. For people of all skin tones, including darker skin tones, the effects of sun damage include uneven skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
“For Black women, sun exposure is not a primary determinant for melanoma, as it is most common in non sun exposed areas,” she explained.
Non-melanoma skin cancers are more common for white people rather than Black people. If they do occur in Black people, they are most often related to UV light damage.
Different Types of Skin Cancer
Melanoma is one of the most serious forms of cancer, but there are several types of skin cancer. The most common types include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and merkel cell carcinoma.
Melanoma often develops from existing moles or as new dark spots on the skin. For Black people, acral lentiginous melanoma is the most common subtype. It often appears on the palms, soles or under the nails.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and the most common cancer in the country. However, it is the least aggressive type. It often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, and it can be easily treated if caught early.
Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a red, scaly patch, or a sore that doesn’t heal. While it can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma, it’s still treatable when detected early.
Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that usually appears as a fast-growing, painless nodule on the skin.
Later Diagnoses in the Black Community
Although melanoma is less common, Black people are still diagnosed at later stages. This increases the risk of death. Mitchell explained that several factors contribute to the later-stage diagnosis of melanoma in Black people.
“A significant issue is that people with darker skin tones often lack awareness about the risk of skin cancer,” she said. “This misconception can lead to delayed self-examinations and fewer visits to dermatologists for skin checks.”
Additionally, melanoma in Black people often appears in less obvious areas. It can show up under the nails or on the soles of the feet, which makes it more challenging to detect early.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection is critical. Detecting cancer early saves lives by significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment. Skin cancer, including melanoma, is highly treatable when caught in its early stages, Mitchell explained.
“When diagnosed early, the treatment is often less invasive,” she said. “The likelihood of a complete cure is also much higher.”
Frequency of Skin Cancer Screenings
Regular skin checks, both self-examinations and professional screenings, are essential in catching skin cancer before it progresses to a more advanced and dangerous stage.
“I recommend that individuals, especially those with risk factors, such as a family history of skin cancer, should see a dermatologist for a full-body skin exam at least once a year,” Mitchell said. “However, if you notice any new or changing spots on your skin, you should schedule an appointment sooner.”
During a typical skin cancer screening, the dermatologist will examine your entire body. This includes areas not commonly exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, soles of the feet and under the nails.
“The examination is thorough but quick,” Mitchell said. “If anything suspicious is found, a biopsy may be recommended to determine if it’s cancerous.”
Skin Care Advice for Black Women
Mitchell advised that Black women be proactive about skin health.
“Even if you have a darker skin tone, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30,” she said. “Sunscreen helps protect against harmful UV rays that can lead to skin cancer and premature aging.”
Additionally, incorporate regular self-examinations into your routine. Check your skin from head to toe. Pay particular attention to areas where melanoma is more likely to develop in darker skin, like the palms, soles, and under the nails. Remember to educate yourself about the risks and signs of skin cancer. Mitchell encouraged women to spread the word within their communities. Awareness is key to early detection and prevention.
“Finally, don’t hesitate to see a dermatologist if you notice any changes in your skin or new areas that don’t ‘meet the gut check,’” she said. “It does not matter how small.”