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Defining the Need for Dermatologic Surgery Global Health in an Afro-Caribbean Country
Nicole Ufkes1, Audrey A Jacobsen1,2, Doris J Joseph3
1Dermatology Medical Missions, Delray Beach, Florida.
Summary
Many Afro-Caribbean individuals lack skin cancer knowledge and perceive it as unpreventable. This highlights a critical need for dermatologic surgery and education programs to address skin cancer in this population.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Global Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Dermatologic surgery is scarce in Africa and Afro-Caribbean nations.
- Healthcare disparities for people of African ancestry exist in the USA, but data for Africa/Afro-Caribbean countries are lacking.
- Limited data on the need for dermatologic surgery hinders its inclusion in global health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess skin cancer knowledge and perceptions in an Afro-Caribbean country.
- To determine if a dermatology surgery medical mission program could enhance health outcomes for Afro-Caribbean people.
- To identify prevalent skin cancer types and associated factors.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a survey on skin cancer knowledge and behaviors.
- Analyzed the types and number of tumors treated during a multi-year surgical dermatology project.
- Collected data on patient demographics and tumor characteristics.
Main Results:
- 62% of participants were unaware of melanoma.
- 81% believed skin cancer is not preventable.
- Of 163 surgical specimens, 64 were malignancies, with 91% linked to UV exposure.
Conclusions:
- A significant need exists for skin cancer treatment and education programs in Afro-Caribbean countries.
- Interventions targeting UV protection and early detection are crucial.
- Dermatologic surgery missions can address critical healthcare gaps in underserved populations.
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