Albinism Is Precious -Albinism Unity Africa

26/11/2025

The study funded by the Fondation Pierre Fabre – a majority shareholder in the French pharmaceutical and cosmetics company Laboratoires Pierre Fabre – found that, of the 1,143 skin cancer cases identified in the review, 87% were reported in Africa. The most common type was squamous cell carcinoma at 56.7%, followed by basal cell carcinoma at 37.4% and melanoma at 3.4%. The high frequency of squamous cell carcinoma in Africa contrasts with Europe and America, where basal cell carcinoma is more prevalent.

“Squamous cell carcinomas, which are the most dangerous, are the most common in people with albinism worldwide, and cutaneous melanoma – a type of cancer quite rare in Black Africans –it is also rare in people with albinism in Africa. Further studies are needed to confirm this finding and understand its causes.

The study also found that the average age at which a skin cancer is diagnosed in people with albinism is only 40 years, which is much younger than for the general population. Their study is the first in the world to provide global data by continent on skin cancers in people with albinism.

26/11/2025

People with albinism in Africa face many obstacles, including a significantly higher risk of skin cancer due to intense sun exposure and lack of melanin, making prevention and access to protective care essential.

People with albinism face a disproportionate risk of skin cancer, as they lack the protection that melanin confers against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. In Africa, the risk levels are particularly high due to the continent’s intense sunlight.

Incidence rates are up to four times higher in this population than among people with albinism living in other parts of the world, with cancer often developing at a relatively early age.

This is a silent killer. Many PWA [people with albinism] in Africa die from cancer, but this is probably one of the least talked about issues.

26/11/2025

Is albinism a disability?

Yes, albinism is considered a disability because it is a lifelong genetic condition that causes visual impairments and increases susceptibility to sun-related issues like sunburn and skin cancer. The associated visual impairments, such as poor depth perception, photophobia, and sometimes legal blindness, can create limitations in daily life. The social and medical stigmas surrounding albinism also lead to its recognition as a disability, especially in legal and human rights contexts.

How albinism is a disability
Visual impairment:
Albinism is associated with vision defects that can significantly affect a person's daily life and ability to perform tasks.
Photophobia: Increased sensitivity to light.

Nystagmus:
Involuntary eye movements.

Amblyopia:
Reduced vision in one or both eyes.

Poor depth perception: Difficulty judging distances.

Legal blindness:
In some cases, vision can be 20/200 or worse.

Increased health risks:
The lack of melanin makes individuals with albinism more vulnerable to certain health problems.

Sunburn and skin cancer:
The skin is very pale and burns easily, making it more susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer.

Infection: There is an increased risk of infection.

Social and legal recognition:
Many governments and organizations recognize albinism as a disability due to the challenges faced by those with the condition.

Legal status:
In some countries, such as South Africa, people with albinism are legally considered persons with disabilities.

Human rights issues:
The United Nations and other human rights organizations have highlighted the need to address the discrimination and human rights abuses faced by people with albinism.

26/11/2025

Skin cancer is a leading cause of death for people with albinism, with some estimates suggesting that up to 98% of people with albinism in sub-Saharan Africa do not live past age 40 without sun protection, and skin cancer accounts for at least 80% of those deaths. Due to a lack of access to sun protection, early diagnosis, and treatment, skin cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma, often lead to premature death, with precancerous lesions present in 100% of those aged 25 and under.

Mortality statistics
High premature mortality:
It is estimated that up to 98% of people with albinism may not live beyond age 40, especially in regions with high sun exposure and limited access to protection.

Primary cause of death:
Skin cancer is the leading cause of death, responsible for at least 80% of these premature deaths.

High prevalence of precancerous lesions:
Some reports show that 100% of people with albinism aged 25 and younger have precancerous lesions.

Contributing factors
Sun exposure: Albinism leads to a high susceptibility to skin cancer due to the lack of melanin, making sun exposure a critical risk factor.

Lack of protection:
Many people with albinism lack access to sun-protective measures such as sunscreen, protective clothing, and safe shelter.
Late diagnosis and treatment: Delays in seeking or receiving medical care for skin lesions significantly contribute to high mortality rates.

Socioeconomic vulnerability:
Poverty and social exclusion can prevent individuals from accessing necessary medical care.

01/11/2025

OCULAR MELANOMA

Ocular melanoma, also known as uveal melanoma, is a type of eye cancer that primarily affects adults. It is one of the most common forms of eye cancer. However, it's important to note that people with albinism have a higher risk of developing ocular melanoma compared to the general population.

If you have albinism and are experiencing any issues with your eyes or eyelids, it is crucial to promptly seek medical attention from a physician or an eye doctor.

Regular check-ups and early detection are key in managing ocular melanoma effectively, especially for individuals with albinism.

31/10/2025

Teboho J Morake

22/10/2025

Shout out to my newest followers! Excited to have you onboard! Mike Chivumo, Thobelani Sbusiso Ndlovu, GJ Page-Bey, Nicolas Wha, Prince Oleku Katetsi Vegason, Derrick Bosderi, Scelo Sibiya, Cyrille Nnanga, Ismael Alberto, Michael Ackbersingh, Lebohang Lebu Khunou, Deco Morweng Deco, Benson Billiat, John Moeti Lepheana, Babwa Aya, Makgoba Mokakabye, Muller Rragwe Gosego Mmoloki, Barry Nkuna, Tristan Wa Yuna, Musah Alhassan, Malluda Salim, Aman Andrea, Noluvuyo Ngceni, Moses Nkwane, Galejewe Rosemary Rebaone, Thomas Nyakundi, Diehard NyakalloLeeto Hard Die, Misheck Kumz, Steven Ngalande, Johannes January, Somisa Makumbila, Tarmaki Tumba, Djj Felice, Charlton Gwishiri, Deekay Khutsoane, Tsholo Rangs, Junior Frater Katungu, Samantha Tamika Khumalo, Mushy Suman, Ziad Zaid, George Kashura, Beelson Thela, Dimakatso Mahundzi, Boitumelo William Moncho, Esie Wa Kampeni, Khanyisile Dayi, Np Np Tz, Dalton Nyalunga Sihlangu, Lolos John, Thullani Ncube

22/10/2025

People with albinism face a variety of problems, the most common of which are financial constraints, health complications due to a lack of adequate medical care, a lack of community support leading to stigma, discrimination and superstitious beliefs.

People with albinism suffer socially as a result of misconceptions, behaviours, social isolation, labelling, and beliefs that are negatively correlated with their disorder. PWAs face these problems as a result of public misunderstanding about albinism.

09/10/2025

Shout out to my newest followers! Excited to have you onboard! Resistor Moresisto Putlane, Bigboy Wabo, Patrick Ndala L'habilleur, Taulu Taulu Adell, Tebejane Tman Thaane, Mabhti Hlathuka, Ndisi Joy, Nicole Brake, Helene Bilounga, Raj Kazungu Fourndo, Üürh Ünamierh LuYarh Lœ, Itumeleng Edwin Segalo, Favor J. Harris, Johannes Iindongo, Gifted Lucky Hand, Aboubacar Diallosoumre, Dimakatso Thamai, Mgcobhane Nzuza, Privellage Queen, Xolane Samuel, Luciah Motloli, Lungile Payi, Marcus Callum, Elizabeth Lebuso, Strive Johan, Gorden Maseko, Patrick Motsepe, Issa Bakari, Stone Mazibuko, Arthuro Bradley, Hope Monywabe, Maudeline Veillard, Rachel Kaylu, Teddy Reddy, Katleho Nkj, Lilian Assey, Owami Amo Malindiceni, Abich Charles, Sehohli Mathibela, Dexter Brinkhuis

24/09/2025

The estimated prevalence of albinism suggests the existence of tens of thousands of people with albinism in Africa. This finding reiterates the need for increased awareness of and public health interventions for albinism in order to better address the medical, psychological and social needs of this vulnerable population.

26/08/2025