The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has raised the alarm over the escalating health crisis affecting persons with albinism (PWAs) in the country, particularly the devastating impact of skin cancer.
The association lamented that within just a few days, it has lost three of its members to the disease, while many others continue to struggle for survival, either in hospitals or at home, without access to proper medical care.
As the world marks World Cancer Day 2025 under the theme “United by Unique,” AAN, in a statement issued by its National President, Dr. Mrs. Bisi Bamishe, is using this moment to amplify the voices of persons with albinism in Nigeria.
Dr Bamishe noted that the theme of the 2025 World Cancer Day underscores the power of unity in addressing the global cancer burden, and the association is calling on the federal, state, and local governments, legislators, donor organizations, and other stakeholders to take immediate action in the fight against the disease.
“For years, persons with albinism in Nigeria have faced significant health challenges, including extreme vulnerability to skin cancer due to the lack of melanin in our skin. The absence of structured government interventions, including access to free or subsidized skin cancer treatments, preventive measures such as sunscreen distribution, and specialized dermatological care, has left our community in a state of despair.
“Without immediate action, we will continue to witness the preventable deaths of our members,” Dr Bamishe said.
The association stated that it has engaged in multiple advocacy efforts, reaching out to policymakers and health authorities to emphasize the need for sustainable policies that guarantee access to affordable healthcare, routine skin cancer screening, and life-saving treatments.
However, it insists that the time for discussions has passed, and concrete actions must be taken immediately.
The association is demanding the inclusion of persons with albinism in government healthcare programs, specifically integrating free and subsidized skin cancer treatment, early screenings, and regular dermatological check-ups into public hospital services.
“Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and protective clothing should be made accessible and affordable, especially to low-income PWAs, through government intervention programs and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
“We call on lawmakers at all levels to pass and implement policies that recognize and address the specific health challenges of persons with albinism, including budgetary allocations for skin cancer prevention and treatment.
“We seek collaboration with global health organizations, donor agencies, and research institutions to develop long-term solutions that will improve the healthcare and quality of life for PWAs in Nigeria,” the association further demanded.
It added that there is a need for nationwide educational campaigns to enlighten both PWAs and the general public on the importance of early detection, preventive measures, and available treatment options.
Dr Bamishe, however, commended Lagos State government for its support to skin cancer patients and called on the Nigerian government and all relevant stakeholders to take decisive steps to ensure that no one is left behind.
“We must acknowledge the efforts of some state governors, development partners and NGOs that have done a lot for us. Special appreciation goes to Lagos State Government that has spent over N20m on skin cancer patients in the last two years as well as provision of sunscreen, hats and umbrellas. We hope other states can follow suit as much as possible,” she said.