The Association of Persons with Albinism, Kaduna State chapter has raised alarm over rising cases of skin cancer from its members.
This was revealed by the Chairman of the association, Comrade Abubakar Adam, during an interview with journalists on Sunday in Kaduna said that skin cancer is a major threat to the lives of albinos.
He disclosed that recently skin cancer claimed three lives of its members, urging government and well-meaning Nigerians to come to their rescue.
According to him, “We lost three lives in Kaduna State recently, two in Kajuru local government and one in Zaria, all attributed to climate change-related issues, including skin cancer.
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“People with albinism lack melanin in their skin, making them more susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer. We are witnessing an increase in skin-related illnesses.
“The sun emits ultraviolet rays that cannot be withstood by the skin of albinos due to low or lack of melanin.”
When asked how the albinos cope with the heat of the sun, Adam said, “We often seek shades under trees or umbrellas to shield our skin from burning. There is the need for protective measures against the harsh effects of climate change.”
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Adam further explained that the association has launched an ongoing campaign to educate parents of children with albinism in the state.
“We also focus on creating awareness about the high cost of living affecting most adults with albinism who struggle to work during the day due to the intense heat.
“We are actively sensitising parents about the importance of ensuring their children wear protective clothing to safeguard their skin from the sun. Moreover, they are intensifying efforts to raise awareness about cancer prevention among the albino community”.
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Attributing the sun as the major contributing factor responsible for the disease, Adam urged persons with albinism not to expose themselves to the sun and ensure adequate protection from the rays in order to forestall the spread of cancer.