Specialty (if any): Dermatology 

Keywords: Dermatologic disparities, farmworker health, day laborer health 

Objectives 

In the population of Latino/Hispanic farmworkers and day laborers in the U.S: describe dermatologic conditions found, describe what current practices are used to prevent skin exposure, and quantify and analyze the dermatologic-focused literature on Latino farmworkers and day laborers. 

Background

Farmworkers and day laborers are essential occupational workers who face increased skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), pesticides, and many other contaminants. The majority of workers in these occupations identify as Latino or Hispanic. Latino farmworkers and day laborers thus have increased dermatologic risks, yet their skin health is not often centered in the literature. Adding to this gap are rising rates of melanoma in Latino adults, who are 2.4 times more likely to present with advanced-stage melanoma, compiled with lack of insurance, decreased access to healthcare centers, and language barriers. This study aims to describe the dermatologic conditions in this population and what preventive practices have been proposed to prevent skin exposure. 

Methods

Using PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we included publications that focused on U.S based Latino farmworkers or day laborers and described topics related to dermatologic health. Others were excluded. Utilizing the PubMed/MEDLINE database, an advanced search included a combination of keywords, truncation usage, and strategic [Mesh] terms.

Results

A search found 40 publications, 9 of which did not meet criteria. 31 met inclusion. 8 of the 31 publications described current skin protective behaviors. 

Conclusions

Common dermatologic conditions described in farmworkers and day laborers were sunburns, tinea pedis, onychomycosis, dermatitis, melanoma, and melasma. Other rarer dermatologic conditions were described in case reports, such as cutaneous larva migrans. Current practices to reduce exposure were using simple long-sleeve shirts and short caps, however many barriers to sunscreen use were noted. This study emphasizes a critical area for growth in research that reviews the dermatologic health of farmworkers and day laborers.