Promoting Skin Protection through Dermatology Outreach Booths at Community Health Fairs

Title: Promoting Skin Protection through Dermatology Outreach Booths at Community Health Fairs
Authors: Annabelle Huntsman, Justin Lyon, Adriene Pavek, Bethany K. H. Lewis, MD, MPH
Date: 1/27/2025
Abstract: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with basal cell carcinoma being the most prevalent, followed by squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Among these, melanoma has the highest potential for metastasis. Utah consistently ranks among the states with the highest incidence of melanoma, driven by its elevated UV index, the popularity of outdoor recreational activities, and genetic predispositions prevalent in the population. Despite these challenges, skin cancer is largely preventable through consistent sun protection and regular skin cancer screenings. Since May 2024, two dermatology booths have been hosted at community health fairs held at the Rose Park Clinic. These booths provided free sunscreen, skincare products, stickers, educational pamphlets on sun safety, information about student-led dermatology clinics, and resources for skin cancer screenings at these free clinics. The number of attendees engaging with the booth and the volume of sunscreen distributed were tracked. Plans are in place to continue hosting the dermatology booth at the clinic’s biannual health fairs to expand community outreach. During the first fair, hosted in May 2024, 125 guests visited the booth, received free sunscreen, and learned about sun protection and available clinic services. At the second fair, hosted in October 2024, 75 attendees engaged with the booth. The dermatology booth strives to emphasize the importance of preventive dermatologic healthcare through direct community engagement. By distributing free sunscreen and products, providing educational resources, and fostering connections with local clinics, meaningful steps have been taken to empower community members to prioritize skin health. The goal is to offer tangible resources to the community to enhance awareness and uptake of preventive measures, ultimately reducing the burden of skin cancer in underserved populations in Utah.

Copyright: Academy of Health Sciences Educators ©2025

Return to Table of Contents: 3rd Annual Student-Led Clinic Symposium

Promoting Skin Protection through Dermatology Outreach Booths at Community Health Fairs by Annabelle Huntsman, Justin Lyon, Adriene Pavek & Bethany K. H. Lewis, MD, MPH