SKIN TYPES

People of all skin colours including those with darker skin tones can get skin cancer. Even if a person never gets sunburnt, they can get skin cancer. 

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Since the risk of skin cancer in fair skinned tones is more prominently publicised in the media, darker-skinned individuals may be unaware that they too are at risk. 

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People of colour should take all recommended preventative measures against skin cancer. 

Of the skin cancers, acral lentiginous melanoma accounts for 29-72% of melanoma among dark-skinned individuals and should therefore be looked out for. It can also occur in those with fairer skin tones, however less commonly than other skin cancers. 

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Acral Lentiginous Melanoma

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This subtype of melanoma is not related to sun exposure and occurs on the palm, sole, or beneath the nail, often starting as enlarging patch of discoloured skin.

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Acral lentiginous melanoma may be recognised by:

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• A large size (>6 mm)

• Variable pigmentation, often a mixture of brown, and blue-grey, black and red colours. It can also be non-pigmented.

• A smooth surface initially, later becoming thicker with an irregular surface that may be dry or warty

• Ulceration or bleeding

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