A cancer survivor whose "ravaged" appearance was mocked in a "distasteful and cruel" viral image has posted a heartfelt reminder that he is more than a meme.

In 2005, Leon Mitchell was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a rare form of cancer that starts in the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose and near the base of skull.

Mr Mitchell, 31, who lives in Washington state, survived the cancer but struggled for years with the "devastating" way it affected his body.

The meme, called Meth Curry, highlighted Mr Mitchell's likeness to American basketball player Stephen Curry, and compared his appearance with the gaunt body of a long-time methamphetamine user.

The photo used was taken while he was undergoing chemotherapy.

It has been widely shared, and came to Mr Mitchell's attention today, prompting him to hit back via an Instagram post.

"So earlier today I was the butt of a not so funny meme "METH CURRY" directed at the outward physical appearance that I display," he wrote.

"The fact that the meme was posted was a reminder of how distasteful and cruel people can be without background knowledge of the person in the bullseye of the target.

"I've struggled deeply for years with the devastating effects cancer treatment plagued my body with. The massive destruction it took on my neck, shoulders, nose, throat, and ability to function normally."

American basketballer Stephen Curry ( Getty Images: Ezra Shaw )

Mr Mitchell said he had overcome those things and become stronger, and was now proud to bare his "ravaged appearance" to the world.

"I am strong enough to endure these attacks after years of rebuilding. However as we look at the power story I explain, let's remember these types of social media attacks on people can be massively detrimental to some who still battle with insecurities and uncomfortability with themselves and their battles," he said.

"If we are going to allow something like this go viral Let's do it for the right reasons!

"I am more then a meme, I am a father, husband, survivor, mentor, community advocate, and positive motivational speaker. Proud to have endured and conquered everything I have!"

The ABC has contacted Mr Mitchell for comment.