National Healthy Skin Month — Caring for Native Skin, Preventing Skin Disease
November (National Healthy Skin Month) highlights skin care, cancer prevention, and early treatment of skin conditions. There’s a misconception that darker skin is fully protected from skin cancer and sun damage — this can delay diagnosis. For Native Americans, skin health intersects with diabetes-related skin complications, limited access to dermatologic care, and cultural practices.
The facts
Historically, skin cancer incidence was thought lower in AI/AN populations than in Whites, but improved registry methods and new analyses reveal higher-than-previously-reported melanoma rates in some Native groups, and significant regional variation. Melanoma and other skin cancers still occur and are often diagnosed late in Native communities, worsening outcomes. Tribal Health+1
People with diabetes — disproportionately represented among AI/AN adults — are also at higher risk for skin infections and poor wound healing (e.g., foot ulcers), which can lead to hospitalization and amputations if not treated. Skin conditions are therefore both a preventive and a systems-level issue. CDC
Common skin concerns in Native communities
Sun-exposure related skin cancers (melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma) — often misdiagnosed or found late.
Diabetes-associated skin problems — fungal infections, ulcers, slow-healing wounds.
Eczema/atopic dermatitis and chronic dermatitis — affecting quality of life and sleep.
Infectious skin conditions — scabies, impetigo, particularly where housing is crowded.
A person’s story
A father noticed a small sore on his forearm that didn’t heal for months. Because he assumed darker skin meant “no skin cancer risk,” he waited. By the time he sought care, biopsy showed squamous cell carcinoma. After successful treatment and scar counseling, he joined a local outreach team to teach other families about early warning signs.
Practical guidance for families
Know warning signs: new or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, lumps, or unusual pigmentation changes. See a provider promptly. American Academy of Dermatology
Sun safety matters: wear wide-brimmed hats, seek shade, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) when outdoors for extended time. Even with darker skin, UV causes damage and cancer risk.
Manage diabetes to protect skin: good glucose control, daily foot checks, proper footwear, and early wound care reduce infection and amputation risk. CDC
Treat skin infections early: seek medical attention for spreading redness, fever, or non-healing sores.
Moisturize and avoid irritants: use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers; avoid harsh soaps that strip skin barrier.
Takeaway
Skin health is prevention-oriented and highly treatable when caught early. During National Healthy Skin Month, prioritize screenings, protect skin from sun exposure, manage diabetes, and teach families to notice changes. Early action preserves function, appearance, and life.
Sources: CDC, AAD, recent IHS and academic analyses on AI/AN skin cancer. Tribal Health+1
