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Addressing Disparities in Melanoma Outcomes

Nathan Shen

Mentor Elliot Asare, MD, Douglas Grossman, MD, PhD, and Michael Andreae, MD, PhD
Award Type Medical Student Award
Institution Huntsman Cancer Institute
Donor Support Looney Legacy Foundation
Background Explained: Utah has the highest incidence of melanoma per 100,000 individuals in the United States. While fewer people from minority communities such as Native Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and African Americans develop melanoma, they tend to have lower survival rates. Challenges in accessing dermatology care, economic hurdles, and limited health knowledge are suspected to play a part in these disparities. We aim to understand from patients, providers and community leaders how these factors interplay to affect optimal melanoma care with the goal to develop targeted, actionable interventions in the future. Importance: By pinpointing the specific obstacles faced by minoritized groups in Utah with regards to melanoma diagnosis and optimal treatment, we will work collaboratively with our community partners to create targeted interventions that resonate with them to improve melanoma outcomes. populations. Method: Our research involves gathering insights through focus group discussions with melanoma patients, healthcare workers, and minoritized community leaders. Before these discussions, participants will be surveyed to assess their perceptions, beliefs, and knowledge regarding melanoma and its care disparities. These conversations will delve into the real-life challenges they face, informed by their personal experiences and cultural contexts. We aim to capture the subtleties of these challenges through careful listening and analysis. Expected Insights: We expect to identify specific barriers and cultural nuances that hinder optimal melanoma care for these communities. The knowledge gained will inform policy changes and suggest modifications in clinical practice, all designed to reduce the disparities in melanoma outcomes.