52417 Efficacy of the Minority Outreach for High School Students (MOHSS) Program in Addressing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Skin Cancer Awareness and Outcomes
Recommended Citation
Williams K, Wong N, Anderson Z, Tolliver S, Mehregan D. 52417 Efficacy of the Minority Outreach for High School Students (MOHSS) Program in Addressing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Skin Cancer Awareness and Outcomes. J Am Acad Dermatol 2024; 91(3):AB199.
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
9-1-2024
Publication Title
J Am Acad Dermatol
Abstract
Introduction/Background: Skin cancer disproportionately affects non-Hispanic White individuals(1), but when diagnosed in people with darker skin tones, it is often at a more advanced stage, leading to poorer outcomes(2,3). Sociocultural factors, access to care, racial concordance with providers, and limited public awareness contribute to these disparities. The Minority Outreach for High School Students (MOHSS) program was developed to address this issue by educating minority high school students in underserved areas about skin protection and encouraging careers in dermatology. Methods: The MOHSS program's efficacy was assessed through pre- and post-program surveys administered across multiple high schools over two academic years (2021-2023). The data were analyzed using Pearson chi-square tests, with a significance level set at α=0.05. Results: The program led to statistically significant improvements in students' attitudes, beliefs, and health literacy regarding skin cancer. Notably, there was an increased interest in pursuing a career in medicine among the participants. Discussion: The MOHSS program appears to be an effective intervention for improving skin cancer awareness and outcomes among minority high school students. It suggests that targeted educational programs can bridge the existing knowledge gap, thereby promoting early detection and better survival rates. Limitation: The study is limited by its focus on specific high schools in underprivileged areas, affecting its generalizability. The reliance on self-reported survey data and logistical challenges in administering post-surveys also pose limitations. Conclusions: The MOHSS program shows promise as a tool for mitigating racial and ethnic disparities in skin cancer outcomes. Further research is needed to assess the sustainability of the observed changes in attitudes and behaviors over a longer period.
Volume
91
Issue
3
First Page
AB199
