|  | Public Health Safety | Outdoor Safety

Sun Effects on Black People Vs. White People

African-Americans have more melanin in their skin than lighter-skinned people, making it less likely that they'll sunburn while outdoors. However, African-Americans and other darker-skinned people, including Hispanics and Native Americans, can still develop skin cancer and other problems from the sun's ultraviolet rays. All races and ethnicities should wear sunscreen while in the sun.

  1. Skin Cancer Facts

    • White people are much more likely to develop skin cancer or die from skin cancer than African-Americans, because their skin has less protective melanin. However, African-Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease at a later stage, when the skin cancer is less curable. In addition, African-Americans are more likely to develop squamous cell cancer, which sometimes spreads to organs and lymph nodes.

    Identifying Skin Cancer

    • See a dermatologist if you notice any new moles or lesions; changes in existing moles or lesions, including bleeding, changes in shape or color or crusting; or spots underneath your nails. African-Americans are most likely to develop abnormal moles indicative of melanoma, the most deadly type of skin cancer, on hand palms, foot soles or beneath fingernails or toenails, even if these areas have not been exposed to the sun. Whites generally develop melanoma on the legs or trunk. African-Americans typically develop squamous cell carcinoma on the legs, anus or genitals.

    Other Risk Factors

    • People of all races are more likely to develop skin cancer if they have had radiation therapy, burn scars, trauma, a weakened immune system or albinism. Conditions that cause skin scarring, such as leprosy or discoid lupus, also increase a person's risk of developing skin cancer, especially squamous cell carcinoma.

    Sun Protection

    • Protect yourself from skin cancer and other harmful effects of UV rays, such as premature aging, by always wearing sunscreen with SPF15 or higher when going outside, even if you are darker skinned. Wear sunglasses that protect from UV rays and wide-brimmed hats, and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Don't use tanning beds, and examine your skin each month for changes in moles or lesions.

Outdoor Safety - Related Articles