A Survey on Sun Protection and Skin Cancer Understanding of Women at the Shelter

Abstract

As medical students, we want to make people understand the significance of skin health and protection from the sun. Despite being one of the most preventable forms of cancer, melanoma continues to claim lives due to a lack of understanding and awareness regarding skin health. In addition, the United States faces a skin cancer epidemic — with cancer cases on the rise — emphasizing the importance of preventative education. However, not all people have the same opportunity to acquire this vital data. This is the reason we are suggesting a skin education and sun protection advocacy project aimed at the high-risk communities in New York City. We aim to enlighten vulnerable groups so they can make reliable decisions and safeguard their health. We started by doing workshops and practical training sessions at women's shelters.