The early detection and diagnosis of melanoma is of paramount importance to dermatologists because skin cancers detected at an early stage are associated with reduced morbidity and mortality compared to those detected at later stages. Among black individuals and Hispanics, detection of melanoma often is delayed, which can lead to poorer prognoses and worse outcomes compared to the non-Hispanic white population. Potential contributing factors such as decreased access to care, fewer preventative measures, and public/medical misconceptions about who is affected by skin cancer have yet to be fully elucidated.
Listen to Dr. Rossi's audiocast on melanoma in the skin of color population here.