TOPLINE

A survey of 70 American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) adults in South Dakota found a low rate of sunscreen use and gaps in skin cancer knowledge, including an underestimation of melanoma risk.

METHODOLOGY

• Researchers conducted a cross-sectional study using a 44-item questionnaire adapted from validated skin cancer awareness instruments in consultation with tribal health educators in South Dakota.
• A total of 70 adults (67% women) self-identifying as AI/AN were recruited at tribal events, health fairs, and urban Native centers across South Dakota, home to nine federally recognized tribes. The largest groups were from Rosebud (23%) and Pine Ridge (21%) reservations.
• The survey assessed demographics, ultraviolet exposure, sunscreen and tanning behaviors, skin cancer knowledge, and risk perception among participants. 

TAKEAWAY

• Only 24% of participants reported year-round sunscreen use, while 43% never used sunscreen. Participants who rated themselves as “very unlikely” to develop skin cancer were less likely to use sunscreen (P = .009). 
• Although 84% of respondents recognized changing moles as a warning sign of skin cancer, 76% incorrectly identified melanoma as the most common skin cancer, and fewer than 25% knew it is curable when detected early.
• Approximately 60% of participants correctly ranked non-Hispanic Whites as having the highest melanoma risk, but nearly one quarter mistakenly ranked AI/AN individuals as having the lowest risk.
• Over half (54%) of participants performed skin self-examinations, while 34% had ever used tanning beds. A total of 89% of respondents reported no cultural practices tied to skin cancer prevention.

IN PRACTICE

“AI/AN populations carry a disproportionate yet underrecognized skin cancer burden; closing this gap requires both clinical engagement and inclusion of Indigenous perspectives in dermatologic research and training,” the authors wrote. With no cultural practices tied to skin cancer prevention, they added, “suggested outreach strategies included integration into primary care visits, presence at powwows and health fairs, and culturally tailored print and social media.”

SOURCE

The study was led by Kianna Thelen, MD, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls. It was published online on August 3 in JAAD International.

LIMITATIONS

Study limitations were self-reported responses, a modest convenience sample of 70 participants, and potential selection bias toward health-engaged participants.

DISCLOSURES

The study received no funding. The authors reported having no conflicts of interest.

This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.