WASHINGTON — The 4th annual Summer Learn2Derm Skin Health Fair, held on Saturday, June 29, was a collaborative effort by the GW School of Medicine, Howard University, and Georgetown School of Medicine, supported by the GW Department of Dermatology and the Wards 7 and 8 Councils. The event, attended by over 100 participants, aimed to educate residents of Southeast D.C., particularly in underserved communities, about the importance of skin care.
The focus of the event was to raise awareness about preventing conditions such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, and more. Organizers emphasized the significance of proper sunscreen use to prevent skin cancer, stressing the impact of excessive sun exposure on health.
“Many skin conditions in our communities go untreated due to lack of awareness or misunderstanding of these diseases, leading to significant impacts on quality of life,” said event organizers.
The event highlighted the disparity in disease burden among people of color and those with low incomes, a critical issue in a city where a majority of adults are Black or African American. According to NIH studies, non-Hispanic Black individuals often receive diagnoses of melanoma at later stages, underscoring the importance of early education and prevention efforts.
Participants at ‘Learn to Derm’ received guidance on managing eczema, acne, hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, and hair loss, with an emphasis on available treatments and resources. By raising awareness of these common skin diseases, the event aimed to empower attendees to take proactive steps toward better skin health.
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