Hephzibah Adegoke

Western medical education often lacks adequate representation of skin conditions on darker skin, limiting clinicians’ diagnostic accuracy and contributing to misdiagnosis. This problem is especially serious in sub-Saharan Africa, where there are very few dermatologists and limited dermatology training for general healthcare workers. Much of the medical knowledge used in these regions comes from Western countries and is not always adapted to local needs, which can reinforce inequalities. At the same time, local communities rely heavily on traditional medicine and indigenous knowledge systems, which are more accessible than formal healthcare. This research will examine public engagement with dermatology and health literacy in Southern African communities, with a focus on traditional practices. It aims to promote equitable knowledge exchange and integrate biomedical and indigenous approaches to care. The project will produce outputs such as artwork, publications, and educational resources to improve representation in dermatology and support more inclusive global medical training.