Melanoma Education for Hispanic People

People with darker skin color may think they are less likely to get skin cancer. However, those of Hispanic descent are the second largest population diagnosed with melanoma, a serious and sometimes deadly cancer. Furthermore, Hispanic or Latino people are more likely to wait to seek care until the disease is advanced, making treatment more difficult.

Multiple factors contribute to poor outcomes, including limited knowledge of melanoma risk factors, early signs of melanoma or how to perform skin self-examinations. Worry about the cost of care may also prevent people from getting the screenings or treatments they need.

Because early recognition and treatment of melanoma are critical for good outcomes, it's important to know how to recognize risk factors and early signs of melanoma.

You may have received a notice via social media or from your physician to participate in online education modules to increase your knowledge and awareness of melanoma. These include tips on prevention and how to do regular self-examinations, which should be performed every three months. Mayo Clinic created these modules and encourages you to participate.

The education modules are designed to be a quick and easy way to learn more. When you participate, you can choose to receive follow-up information and newsletters. The education includes visual examples and takes approximately 5-7 minutes to complete, all at your own pace.