Cameroon celebrates World Albinism Day

Cameroonians joined the rest of the world to celebrate the International Albinism Awareness day yesterday June 13, 2016, on the theme "Addressing Health Issues in Albinism: The Need For Stakeholders Intervention.” People with albinism face multiple forms of discrimination worldwide. Albinism is still profoundly misunderstood, socially and medically.

Albinos face skin problem caused by sunlight. Since the skin of the albino does not have melanin, it is fragile such that when he is exposed to sunlight, the skin gets affected with skin cancer. The second problem is that of vision. Due to lack of melanin in the organism of the albino, the retina is affected by sunlight and cannot see far distances. They are forced to use eyeglasses.

In order to improve the health conditions of albinos, the Association for the Rights of Albinos (ASMODISA) works in collaboration with the different health sectors in the country. Koum Dim Emmanuel, an albino and member of ASMODISA said the medical sector helps albinos in two ways that is both prevention and treatment.

Concerning treatment, there are several counselling that medical practitioners notably dermatologists, ophthalmologists and doctors offer albinos. Concerning the present skin issue, they are advised to consider that the sun is the number one enemy of the albino.

They are thus advised to avoid sunlight as much as possible, bathe regularly and use baby toilet products, among others to enable the albino protect his skin from sun rays.

As for sight albinos are advised to always have sun glasses so as to protect their sight. Consultations both in dermatology and ophthalmology are organised regularly to have an idea of the state of health of albinos. During these consultations, albinos are prescribed sun creams to reduce the effects of sun rays.

Apart from the use of sun creams, they are also advised on the need for frequent dermatological consultations to ensure a healthy skin. Also, free screening exercises are presently are being organised for albinos in hospitals in the country.