Skin Cancer Epidemiology and Sun Protection Behaviors Among Native Americans

Introduction: Sun protection behaviors in Native American populations are historically under-reported, though the greatest proportion lives in Western states that have the greatest UV-index burden within the United States. Materials/Methods: We deployed an anonymous questionnaire online, in-clinic, and in the community to Native Americans belonging to federally recognized tribe and have resided on a reservation. The questionnaire explored demographics, sunscreen use and preference, skin cancer screening, and personal and family history. Results: One-hundred fifty-nine respondents fit the inclusion criteria. Greater than 80% reported experiencing at least one sunburn, though only 10.7% and 36.4% reported regular sunscreen use on their body and face, respectively. The participants reported a myriad of reasons for which they do not utilize sunscreen, with 9% believing that Native Americans, or other skin of color persons, do not develop skin cancer. This was additionally observed in the low reports of ever receiving a skin exam (7.5%). Discussion: Sunscreen use among Native Americans (36.4%) appears to be greater than other skin of color users, but less than that of non-Hispanic Whites (40.4%). We postulate that this may be due to the respondents living in states with high UV burden, or an intrinsically greater propensity to burn. Native American populations tend to lack skin cancer screenings by dermatologists and understanding of skin cancer etiology. Efforts are needed to encourage education and dermatologic services to Native American reservations. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(5):420-423.