As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the International Albinism Awareness Day, an Albinism Advocacy Initiative has emphasized the need for regular skin and eye check up for persons with Albinism.
With this year’s theme focused on the Rights of those with Albinism to protecting their skin, the Albinism Advocacy Initiative during a sensitization seminar targeted almost one hundred persons with the condition for free sunscreening cream, free eye and skin care to prevent life threatening ailments that can occur due to exposure to sun rays.
Persons Living with Albinism face various challenges especially that which predisposes them to skin problems and cancer due to exposure to the harmful effects of Ultra Violet Radiation on their skin.
The need for proper skin care practice to tackle some of the challenges and increase confidence in themselves is the reason for this sensitization workshop and seminar by the Initiative.
Miracle Ogiemwonyi is a Person Living with Albinism who is attending the sensitization seminar with one of her parents.
Though relieved with several efforts by concerned citizens in providing free medical care and other items to better their condition, she is however worried about stigmatization and lack of empathy especially in the school environment where they face sight problems.
For her and others, there is need for the government to help with policies that will boost their confidence in attaining their life’s goals.
Albinism is a genetic condition caused by lack of pigment in the skin, eyes and hair and sometimes accompanied by visual impairment.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
