Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that can cause fluid-filled bumps and tunnels under the skin. HS is more common in Black and biracial people than in other racial groups. Unfortunately, Black and biracial people often face barriers to care that can delay their diagnosis and treatment.
One barrier to care is a lack of health insurance. HS is a chronic condition that requires ongoing treatment. Without health insurance, people may not be able to afford the care they need, which can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Another barrier to care is less access to dermatologists. Dermatologists are the only medical professionals who are trained to diagnose and treat HS. However, there is a shortage of dermatologists in the United States, and there are even fewer dermatologists who are Black or skilled in treating people of color.
A delayed diagnosis as a child or teen is another barrier to care. HS often first appears during puberty. However, children and teens may be embarrassed to talk about their symptoms, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis. In one study, nearly half of children and teens with HS had scarring by the time the condition was recognized.
These barriers to care can have serious consequences for Black and biracial people with HS. Black and biracial people with HS are more likely to experience severe complications, such as ER trips, hospitalizations, and surgeries. They are also more likely to have a lower quality of life.
There are a number of things that can be done to address the racial gap in HS diagnoses and treatment. These include:
* Increasing the number of dermatologists who are Black or skilled in treating people of color
* Educating patients about HS and its symptoms
* Advocating for policies that make it easier for people to get health insurance and access care
By addressing the racial gap in HS diagnoses and treatment, we can improve the health and well-being of Black and biracial people with HS.
