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

Despite a higher incidence of melanoma among white individuals, melanoma specific-survival is worse among individuals with skin of color (SOC). Racial disparities in survival are multifactorial. Decreased skin cancer education focused on people with SOC, 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 ultraviolet (UV) exposure during childhood has been established as a significant modifiable risk factor for melanoma in individuals with lighter skin phototypes (SPT), there is limited data on UV and melanoma risk in people with darker SPT. The second article of this continuing medical education series will examine factors contributing to racial disparities in melanoma-specific survival (MSS), discuss the role of UV radiation, and address the need for further research and targeted educational interventions for melanoma in SOC.