Abstract
ABSTRACT: Skin cancer represents the most common type of cancer diagnosed in the United States. Unfortunately, skin cancer is often considered a disease that spares the skin of color. Although skin cancer is less common in Black patients overall, it is typically diagnosed at later stages in this population, which portends a poorer prognosis. Several well-established risk factors for skin cancer do not necessarily apply to Black patients; however, sun exposure is a modifiable behavior that, through public education, can lead to successful prevention. In addition, barriers to adequate resources, including sunscreen and access to care, contribute to the issue of delayed diagnosis. We propose that such barriers should be evaluated further to address the healthcare discrepancy in this patient population. This article explores the importance of both public and provider education regarding the prevention and timely diagnosis of skin cancer in skin of color.