Melanoma: Does It Present Differently in Darker Skin Tones?

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Melanoma presents differently across skin tones, with higher mortality in individuals with darker skin.
• Early detection and treatment are crucial but often delayed in darker skin tones due to lack of awareness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase nursing and medical trainees' awareness of melanoma in individuals with darker skin tones.
• To educate on the unique epidemiology, prevention, and treatment strategies for melanoma in diverse populations.

Main Methods:

• An interactive 75-minute workshop was designed using the Kern model.
• Content included a presentation, videos, and case studies, with pre- and post-workshop questionnaires for evaluation.
• The workshop was delivered to 63 nursing students, 11 medical students/residents, and 6 faculty.

Main Results:

• Seventy-one participants completed evaluations, showing a statistically significant increase in confidence.
• Learners demonstrated improved confidence in addressing all learning objectives related to melanoma in darker skin tones.

Conclusions:

• Interactive educational workshops can effectively enhance trainee awareness of melanoma across all skin tones.
• Improved understanding of melanoma in darker skin tones is vital for equitable patient care and outcomes.