People with albinism push for joint efforts to combat skin cancer risk

As the world marks International Albinism Awareness Day 2026, the Albinism Association and Persons with Albinism in Anambra State are urging advocates, development partners, government agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to promote the rights, dignity, health, and inclusion of persons with albinism.

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The Chairman of the Anambra State Albinism Association, Israel Orizu, emphasized this call to action during a programme held on Tuesday to commemorate the day, which has the theme ‘Proudly in my skin: Celebrating all skin tones’.

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this theme serves as a reminder that every human being deserves equal respect, protection, and opportunities, regardless of their skin colour or genetic condition, according to Orizu.

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Orizu expressed deep concern and called for urgent action, citing the association's current management of 16 active cases of skin cancer among its members.

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He appealed to stakeholders to join the association in ensuring that no person with albinism dies from preventable skin cancer due to poverty, neglect, or lack of access to healthcare.

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Orizu stressed that every human being deserves equal protection and opportunities, and that persons with albinism are valuable members of society who enrich communities despite the challenges they face.

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In Anambra State, this year's celebration is marked by concern and a renewed call for urgent action, with the association currently managing 16 active cases of skin cancer among its members.

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These 16 cases represent individuals who are not just statistics, but fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, community leaders, workers, and students whose lives are under threat due to skin cancer.

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Many of these individuals require urgent medical intervention, regular dermatological care, surgery, medication, and comprehensive health insurance to improve their chances of survival.

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Orizu noted that skin cancer remains a leading cause of preventable illness and death among persons with albinism in Nigeria, with many affected individuals unable to afford the high cost of treatment and specialised medical care.

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The association is calling on the Federal and Anambra State governments to strengthen policies and programmes that protect the health and welfare of persons with albinism.

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Orizu also urged the National Health Insurance Authority and relevant stakeholders to facilitate the urgent enrolment of vulnerable persons with albinism, especially skin cancer patients, into health insurance programmes.

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Furthermore, healthcare providers and medical institutions should expand access to skin cancer screening, treatment, dermatological consultations, and preventive services.

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Corporate organisations, development partners, and philanthropists are being asked to support ongoing efforts to fund treatment, provide sunscreen, protective clothing, and other life-saving interventions.

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The general public is also being encouraged to support awareness campaigns on skin cancer prevention and eliminate discrimination, stigma, and exclusion against persons with albinism.

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Ultimately, the goal is to build a society where every person with albinism can live with dignity, safety, good health, and equal opportunity, according to Orizu.