RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Ethnic Equity Implications in the Management of Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
JF The Journal of the American Board of Family
                Medicine
JO J Am Board Fam Med
FD American Board of Family Medicine
SP 173
OP 174
DO 10.3122/jabfm.2022.01.210168
VO 35
IS 1
A1 Divya Sharma
A1 Yoseph Dalia
A1 Tejesh S. Patel
YR 2022
UL http://www.jabfm.org/content/35/1/173.abstract
AB One major issue facing the health care system in the United States is the disparity in health care management of diseases that affect minority patient populations. Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) is very common in Black men. It presents as skin-colored to erythematous, follicular or perifollicular papules and pustules predominantly on the neck and chin. The most definitive treatment for PFB is cessation of close shaving. However, many Black men are forced to comply with “clean-shaven” policies in the workforce. For those who are able to obtain medical waivers, there is significant time and costs associated with this, especially if they must wait to receive this waiver from a dermatologist. If primary care providers are able to identify the disease and spread awareness of its legitimacy, it may be easier for patients to receive the necessary waivers and may encourage employers to reflect on the ethnic equity of this practice. Our professional support can help reduce stigma and lead to improvements in the physical and psychological health of this historically mistreated population.