Diversifying Anatomical Models

Abstract

To increase diversity in health and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, it is imperative to create inclusive laboratory tools and environments for students. Unfortunately, most human anatomical models depict white males who are young and lean. This limited representation may discourage students who are considering careers in STEM fields and medicine. Therefore, we painted anatomical models to represent more diverse skin tones. First, the models (3B Deluxe Human Torso) were taped with painters' tape to cover areas that did not need to be painted. Then, the models were cleaned using alcohol prep pads to remove any excess dirt or dust. Commercial grade interior paint (Valspar Satin Interior Paint in colors Cordovan and Cowboy Hat) was applied to the anatomical models with paint brushes (Master’s Touch soft nylon). To create more realistic skin tones, we mixed red and blue acrylic paints (Master’s Touch in Permanent Red and Phthalocyanine Blue) into each paint shade to achieve unique colors. Three layers of paint were applied to each model and each layer dried within one hour. Details such as lip and eye color and hair texture were also added to the models. To maintain the longevity of the paint, clear varnish (Liquitex Finishing Varnish in Satin) was applied. The total process (preparation, paint, and dry time) for one model took a total of five hours. One of the primary goals of our work is that our painting process can be used as a blueprint for other educators and medical professionals to increase inclusivity in their learning spaces and labs and further diversify their anatomical education tools. Creating an inclusive education experience may encourage more students of color and underrepresented minorities to pursue health and STEM graduate degrees. This will increase healthcare quality for patient populations and move the field towards greater health equity. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2023 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.