Skin Cancer: An Important Message for Native Communities
Many people think skin cancer only affects people with light skin, but that is not true. Native American and Alaska Native people can get skin cancer, and it can be serious if not found early.
Native Americans have the second highest rate of skin cancer in the U.S., and when it is found, it is often at a later stage, when treatment is harder. One reason is the belief that darker skin does not get skin cancer.
What to Watch For
Skin cancer may show up in places that don’t get much sun, such as:
- Palms of the hands
- Soles of the feet
- Under fingernails or toenails
- Inside the mouth or nose
Look for new spots, sores that don’t heal, dark streaks under nails, or spots that change. If something looks or feels different, it’s important to get it checked.
Protecting Your Skin
Everyone can protect their skin by:
- Wearing hats or long sleeves
- Using sunscreen
- Staying in the shade when the sun is strongest
Taking care of our health honors ourselves, our families, and future generations.
Finding skin cancer early saves lives, and awareness helps keep our communities strong.