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Abstract
Skin cancer is less common in persons with skin of color than in light-skinned Caucasians
but is often associated with greater morbidity and mortality. Thus, it is crucial
that physicians become familiar with skin cancer in persons of color so as to maximize
the likelihood of early detection of these tumors. In dark-skinned ethnic groups,
squamous cell carcinoma is most common; squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma usually
occur on nonsun-exposed sites; and ultraviolet radiation is not an important etiologic
factor for skin cancer with the exception of basal cell carcinoma. Races of intermediate
pigmentation, such as Hispanics and Asians, share epidemiologic and clinical features
of dark-skinned ethnic groups and Caucasians. Skin cancers pose a significant risk
in skin of color and clinicians should focus on preventive measures in these groups
such as regular skin exams, self-examination, public education, and screening programs.
At the completion of this learning activity, participants should be familiar with
the epidemiology and unique clinical features of skin cancer in skin of color and
be aware of strategies to prevent skin cancer in skin of color.