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There is no correlation between skin cancer and the amount of melanin in the skin and its a popular misconception that those with darker skin color are not at risk for skin cancer. This is not true, all skin types are susceptible and even those with more melanin and darker skin tones can get sunburn and UV damage. Skin cancer can also occur due to other factors besides UV damage. (http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/skin-cancer-and-skin-of-color).

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There is in fact is a correlation between melanin levels and Vitamin D deficiency. Since melanin in the skin has the function of deterring harmful rays, higher levels of melanin are preventing necessary UV rays from activating the Vitamin D producing molecules, therefore people with higher levels of melanin have more of a risk of Vitamin D deficiency and the related illnesses.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19182816

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People closer to the equator tend to have more melanin due to an increase in the amount of sun. People closer to the poles have less melanin because it's much cooler, therefore there is not much need for melanin to protect you skin from the UV rays.

(Mrs. Podkomorski)

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The most superficial layer of the epidermis is the stratum corneum, this layer consists of 20-30 dead, horny layers. The next layer is only found in the thickest parts of the skin (heels and palms) and that is the statum lucidum. The statum granulosum is the next layer and has the appearance of granules. The layer with the most layers is the stratum spinosum and is where keratinocytes are located. The deepest layer of the epidermis is the stratum basale and is very active in the process of forming new cells. It is also where melanocytes are located. After that there is the dermis. (Podko).

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Vitamin D is synthesized by the body in order to aid the absorption of calcium and support bone growth. It also helps the regulation of the immune system. Lack of Vitamin D can result in rickets (softer than normal bones) and  cardiovascular health risks.

http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/80/6/1706S.long

http://www.webcitation.org/5Rl5u0LB5

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UV light actives the molecules in the skin that convert into Vitamin D, the vitamin then enters the blood stream where it travels to and is then absorbed by the kidneys and liver and converted in calcitrol, where it mainly aids the strengthening and maintenance of bones.

(Edpuzzle)

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Melanocytes are found in the epidermis (top layer of skin)  and hair follicles. Their function is to produce certain amounts of melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3834696/