Abstract / Summary
Skin malignancies in individuals with skin of color (SOC) present distinct epidemiologic, clinical, and prognostic characteristics compared to lighter-skinned individuals. Although the incidence of many skin cancers is lower in SOC, outcomes are often worse due to atypical presentations, delayed diagnosis, and the scarcity of research focused on SOC. This review summarizes the current evidence on skin malignancies in SOC – covering epidemiology, tumor biology, risk factors, major cancer types (squamous cell carcinoma [SCC], basal cell carcinoma [BCC], and malignant melanoma), diagnostic pitfalls, and management considerations. Major skin cancers – SCC, BCC, and malignant melanoma – are discussed with emphasis on their unique clinical presentations in SOC, such as acral involvement and pigmentary variations that may obscure early detection. Diagnostic challenges, including under-recognition, limitations of conventional clinical criteria, and reduced sensitivity of emerging diagnostic technologies in darker skin types, are also examined. In addition, current management strategies are reviewed, with attention to treatment-related pigmentary and scarring complications that are particularly relevant in SOC. Preventive strategies, public health implications, and the need for culturally sensitive education and improved representation in research are emphasized. Awareness of unique features of skin cancers in SOC is critical for dermatologists and oncologists practicing in diverse populations so as to maximize the likelihood of early detection of these cancers.