The Albinism Association of Nigeria has appealed to the federal and state governments to institutionalise the provision of free UV-protective umbrellas, sunscreen, and wide-brimmed hats for persons with albinism.

Its national president, Bisi Bamishe, noted the move would form part of a comprehensive prevention strategy against skin cancer.

Ms Bamishe made the appeal on Wednesday in a statement to commemorate World Cancer Day, celebrated annually on February 4.

“These are not luxury items. They are basic survival tools that protect lives and reduce long-term health risks for persons with albinism,” she said.

She called for urgent, inclusive, and sustained action to address the disproportionate burden of skin cancer among persons with albinism in Nigeria.

“For persons with albinism, skin cancer is a daily and life-threatening reality. Due to the absence of melanin, their skin is highly sensitive to ultraviolet radiation, placing them at extreme risk of UV-induced skin cancer.

“While skin cancer can affect anyone at any age and on any part of the body, its impact on persons with albinism is particularly severe and often fatal when access to care is delayed,” she said.

She lamented that across Nigeria and many other countries, the challenge is not the lack of knowledge about prevention or early detection, but the lack of access.

Ms Bamishe acknowledged and commended ongoing government efforts, especially the planned inauguration of free skin cancer screening centres for persons with albinism.

She restated that early detection was a critical step toward reducing cancer-related deaths within communities. However, she stressed that screening without access to treatment was inadequate.

Ms Bamishe also called on the government, development partners, civil society organisations, media, and the public to stand in solidarity with persons affected by cancer.

The support, she said, should include research, advocating for inclusive and accessible healthcare, and strengthening policies that protect vulnerable populations.

World Cancer Day is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness, strengthening prevention efforts, promoting early detection, and mobilising collective action against cancer.

(NAN)