African American skin and cancer – What to look for

While the pigment in our brown skin provides us with some natural sun protection, you should not let it lead to a false sense of security that you are immune to cancer. Women and men with higher levels of melanin must still be aware that we are indeed at risk for skin cancer and that early detection is important. 

Tips for early detection and prevention

Once every month, examine your skin from head to toe, paying particular attention to your hands, fingers, feet, toes, nails and mouth, where melanoma-type skin cancers are more likely to appear in individuals with darker skin tones.

Look for dark brown or black spots in these areas, no matter how small, and be aware of any new spots or spots that change. The change can be an increase in size, shape or color or a raised bump that develops within the spot. A bump on the foot or toe that is sore or does not heal is another tip off for skin cancer. Be on the lookout for dark streaks or lines along one fingernail or toenail only.

If you find anything unusual, any area that you think might have changed or any particularly dark or irregular spot, see your dermatologist right away.