Experts highlight need for early melanoma detection and revised messaging in India

Dermatological experts emphasize that public health messaging regarding melanoma in India requires recalibration because the cancer predominantly presents on the soles of the feet or under nails rather than sun-exposed areas.

Acral lentiginous melanoma accounts for 35% to 60% of cases in dark-skinned individuals and is frequently misdiagnosed as bruises or fungal infections until the disease advances.

Modern oncology offers advanced therapeutic tools, including immune-checkpoint inhibitors, targeted molecular therapies, and personalised mRNA vaccines combined with pembrolizumab.