Melanoma is a particularly dangerous form of skin cancer, and there’s a subtle warning sign that many people might overlook which can appear on your nails. Though it may resemble an injury, it’s something far more serious.
The primary cause of melanoma is ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, whether from the sun or tanning beds. However, experts from the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) stress the importance of checking areas less exposed to sunlight, such as your feet. Neglecting these areas could delay detection, increasing the risk of the cancer spreading unnoticed.
Whilst the NHS says “melanomas can appear anywhere on your body”, they stress that “they’re more common in areas that are often exposed to the sun. Some rarer types can affect the eyes, soles of the feet, palms of the hands or genitals.”
AAD experts warn: “People of all races and colours get melanoma on their feet. In fact, about the same number of African Americans and Caucasians develop melanoma on a foot. For people of African or Asian ethnicity, the feet and hands are the most common places for melanoma to appear.”
Therefore, you should check the entire bottom of your foot, including your toes, toenails and in between your toes. AAD guidance continues: “Research has shown that a foot injury may increase your risk of developing melanoma.
“Bob Marley, a legendary reggae artist, developed melanoma on his foot. It’s believed that the melanoma began where he had injured his foot while playing soccer. He later died of melanoma.”
What are the signs of melanoma?
You need to keep an eye out for:
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Brown or black vertical line under a toenail
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Pinkish-red spot or growth
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New spot or growth where you injured your foot
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Rapidly growing mass on your foot, especially where you once injured your foot
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Non-healing sore on your foot (or a sore that heals and returns)
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Sore that looks like a diabetic ulcer
Keeping an eye out for a brown or black vertical line under a toenail is key as it may look like an injury. Even if you have had an injury, it’s key to keep an eye on it.