Could it be SKIN CANCER?? Learn the signs of what to look for with melanoma
Channel: Dr Kay Explains
Date: 2019-06-30

Anyone with skin can get skin cancer and that includes black people. There are different types of skin cancer including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. The most deadly type of skin cancer is a melanoma. 


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Melanoma symptoms 
Melanomas usually show up as a new mole on your skin that may change in size, shape, or color. The main risk factor for developing a melanoma is UV light exposure, ie sunlight. Tanning beds is another source of UV light.

This UV light which causes the skin to tan or burn is one of the main reasons for developing melanomas. Typically people with fair skin, pale who burn easily have the most increased risk of developing melanomas. But even if you never get sunburn, you can get skin cancer.

Melanoma overview
Melanomas are rare in black skin. They're instead more likely to develop on parts of the body that get less sun like the bottom of the foot, lower leg, and palms, groin and genital areas. Skin cancer may also begin under a nail, as dark streak and It’s important to check these areas.

Melanoma removal
Once diagnosed especially at an early stage, the outlook for treatment of melanoma is good. They are usually treated by surgery to remove the melanoma and a small area of normal skin around it. The removed sample is then sent to a lab to be looked at with a microscope (melanoma biopsy)

So my top tips on how people of colour can reduce melanoma risk

1.Seek shade whenever possible. Avoid the sun's rays when its strongest, usually around midday 11-3pm.
2.Wear clothing that protects your skin from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat can shade your face and neck. You also want to wear shoes that cover the entire foot. Black people often develop skin cancer on their feet.
3. Wear sunscreen. Theres this misconception that black people don't need it but honestly you should wear sunscreen. Not only does it help protect from the suns Ray's, but reduces signs of ageing and hyperpigmentation. Dermatologists recommend that we use sunscreen that has:

Broad-spectrum protection

SPF 30 or greater

Water resistance

Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every couple of hours. You want to apply sunscreen to skin that will be bare. Be sure to apply sunscreen every day — even on cloudy days.
4.Never use tanning beds or sunlamps.These emit harmful UV rays, which can cause skin cancer. It may seem safer to use these tanning beds than going out in the sun but in reality they emit high levels of UV light and can do a lot of damage. 
5. Every so often do a "mole check". Check areas of your skin, palms, around your fingernails, feet. If you notice any new moles or changes then best to see a doctor.

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