Group Demands Free Medical Examinations, Sunscreen, and Assistive Materials for Persons with Albinism
Ilorin, Kwara State – February 4, 2025
As the world marks World Cancer Day, the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter has made a passionate appeal to government agencies, ministries, and philanthropists to provide urgent support for persons with albinism, who remain highly vulnerable to skin cancer due to their sensitivity to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
The group, in a statement released to commemorate the global cancer awareness event, emphasized that skin cancer remains the biggest health threat to persons with albinism. Without melanin to protect their skin, many individuals in this community face a lifetime of sun damage, painful skin conditions, and, in many cases, fatal skin cancer.
The Sun: A Constant Threat to Persons with Albinism
Unlike the general population, persons with albinism lack adequate melanin pigmentation in their skin, making them extremely vulnerable to sun-induced damage. Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection leads to chronic skin problems and increases the likelihood of developing aggressive forms of skin cancer.
According to Abdulsalam Kehinde Hussein, Chairman of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter, the harsh Nigerian climate makes the need for intervention even more urgent.
“The sun is the greatest enemy of persons with albinism. While most people can walk freely in the sun, those of us with albinism live in fear of prolonged exposure. Many of our members have already developed serious skin conditions, and some have lost their lives to preventable cases of skin cancer.”
A Call for Government Intervention
The association is now calling on the Kwara State Government, the Ministry of Health, and other relevant agencies to introduce free monthly medical check-ups for persons with albinism. Regular screenings will help in early detection and timely treatment of skin-related ailments before they develop into life-threatening conditions.
They also stress the need for public hospitals and dermatology clinics to provide affordable or free treatment for individuals already battling sun-induced skin damage.
“Early detection can save lives, but many persons with albinism cannot afford regular medical check-ups, let alone expensive skin treatments. Government intervention is not just necessary; it is a matter of life and death,” Hussein added.
Sunscreen, Protective Gear, and the Role of Philanthropists
Beyond medical intervention, the association is urging philanthropists, corporate organizations, and NGOs to donate essential assistive materials to persons with albinism. Items such as:
- Sunscreen cream (a necessity that remains unaffordable for many)
- Wide-brimmed hats to shield the face from direct sunlight
- Umbrellas for additional sun protection
- Sunglasses to protect their light-sensitive eyes
- Long-sleeved clothing to reduce direct sun exposure
“A simple bottle of sunscreen could be the difference between healthy skin and developing cancer. Unfortunately, many of our members cannot afford these items regularly,” Hussein lamented.
The Albinism Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter is also appealing for corporate sponsorships and government-backed initiatives that will make sunscreen, protective clothing, and medical treatment freely available to the community.
Recognizing Government Efforts, But More Needs to Be Done
While acknowledging the Kwara State Government’s existing efforts in supporting persons with disabilities (PWDs), the association is urging for specific interventions that address the unique health risks faced by persons with albinism.
“We appreciate the efforts made so far to support PWDs in Kwara State, but albinism comes with unique health challenges that require urgent and targeted intervention,” the chairman noted.
The group insists that full inclusion in healthcare policies must be a priority and that collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society organizations is essential for achieving long-term solutions.
A Collective Responsibility: Ensuring a Healthy Future for Persons with Albinism
As World Cancer Day serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of cancer, the association is calling on all stakeholders to take action now. Ensuring that persons with albinism in Kwara State—and across Nigeria—receive the medical attention, protective gear, and support they need is not just a health issue but a fundamental human rights concern.
“Every Nigerian, regardless of their condition, deserves the right to a long, healthy life. Protecting persons with albinism from skin cancer is not an option—it is a responsibility,” Hussein concluded.
How to Help
For individuals, organizations, and government bodies looking to support this cause, the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter can be contacted at:
📞 Kehinde: 07068493922
📞 Alimat: 0768493922
📞 Aishat: 08061132080
By working together, we can ensure that persons with albinism live free from the fear of skin cancer, enjoying the same right to health and well-being as every other Nigerian.
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