Divya Reddy Divya Reddy Asked 7 months ago

Do african americans get skin cancer?

Reading an article online about health issues in different communities, it got me thinking. Skin cancer is often associated with fair skin, but can people with darker skin tones, like African Americans, also get skin cancer?

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5 answers

Vinay Prasad Vinay Prasad Joined May 2026 6 months ago
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Yes, they absolutely do, and because people think dark skin is safe, they often ignore it until it is too late. I ignored a changing mole once and regretted the delay. Always get any weird skin spot checked by a doctor.

Aparna Nair Aparna Nair Joined Apr 2026 7 months ago

It is so scary when people assume dark skin is immune. When my friend of color got diagnosed, we were all devastated because of the lack of awareness out there. It is a very real danger.

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Consult a dermatologist

Geeta Solanki Geeta Solanki Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

While aloe vera and coconut oil are great to keep skin hydrated after sun exposure, skin cancer can affect anyone regardless of skin tone. Please consult a dermatologist if you see any unusual patches.

Siddharth Rao Siddharth Rao Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

According to dermatologists, skin cancer in darker skin tones often occurs in non-exposed areas like the palms, soles of the feet, or under nails. My doctor mentioned this is called acral lentiginous melanoma, and it is crucial to screen those areas.

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Rohan Das Rohan Das Joined Apr 2026 7 months ago

Man, my late-night internet rabbit holes are scary. But yes, melanin protects you from sunburns but definitely doesn't make you bulletproof against cancer. Everyone needs sunscreen!

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