Melanoma in skin of color: Part II. Racial disparities, role of UV, and interventions for earlier detection

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2023 Sep;89(3):459-468. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2022.04.057. Epub 2022 May 7.

Abstract

Despite a higher incidence of melanoma among White individuals, melanoma-specific survival is worse among individuals with skin of color. Racial disparities in survival are multifactorial. Decreased skin cancer education focused on people with skin of color, lower rates of screening, increased socioeconomic barriers, higher proportions of more aggressive subtypes, and underrepresentation in research and professional education contribute to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Although high, intermittent UV exposure during childhood has been established as a significant modifiable risk factor for melanoma in individuals with lighter skin phototypes, there are limited data on UV exposure and melanoma risk in people with darker skin phototypes. The second article of this continuing medical education series will examine factors contributing to racial disparities in melanoma-specific survival, discuss the role of UV radiation, and address the need for further research and targeted educational interventions for melanoma in individuals with skin of color.

Keywords: acral lentiginous melanoma; education; epidemiology; melanoma; mucosal melanoma; racial disparity; skin of color.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Early Detection of Cancer
  • Humans
  • Melanoma* / complications
  • Melanoma* / diagnosis
  • Melanoma* / epidemiology
  • Racial Groups
  • Skin Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Skin Neoplasms* / epidemiology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / etiology
  • Ultraviolet Rays / adverse effects