Abstract
Although age-adjusted incidence rates (per 100,000 population) for melanoma are lower among Hispanics (4.5) compared with non-Hispanic whites (21.6), melanoma in Hispanics is more likely to be diagnosed at more advanced stages, resulting in higher mortality than non-Hispanic whites in the USA. It is likely due to, in part, a lower index of suspicion in both the healthcare providers and the minority populations and, as such, diagnosis is often delayed, resulting in advanced presentation and a worse prognosis. More comprehensive medical training, expanded public education campaigns and increased awareness among patients of all skin types to perform self skin checks are highly recommended. Further studies elucidating the etiology and risk factors for melanoma among minority populations are needed.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.