The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has urged the federal government to incorporate free skin cancer treatment and routine dermatological check-ups for persons with albinism into the national healthcare system.
In a statement released on Sunday ahead of World Cancer Day on 4 February, themed “United by Unique”, AAN’s National President, Bisi Bamishe, emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to protect the lives of persons with albinism.
Highlighting the severity of the issue, Ms. Bamishe revealed that three members of the association had recently succumbed to skin cancer within just a few days. She stressed that skin cancer must be included in the national health insurance package, as individuals with albinism in Nigeria remain particularly vulnerable due to the absence of melanin in their skin.
> “The lack of structured government intervention, including access to free or subsidized skin cancer treatments, preventive measures like sunscreen distribution, and specialized dermatological care, has pushed our community into a state of despair,” she stated.
“Without immediate action, we will continue to lose our members to a disease that is both preventable and treatable.”
In response to this growing crisis, Ms. Bamishe disclosed that AAN has been actively engaging national and state stakeholders through multiple advocacy visits. These efforts aim to sensitize policymakers, legislators, and health authorities on the urgent healthcare needs of persons with albinism and to push for sustainable policies that guarantee affordable healthcare, regular skin cancer screenings, and access to life-saving treatments.
“The time for discussions has passed. Now is the moment for concrete, swift, and decisive action to protect lives,” she stressed.
AAN also called for government-backed provision of sunscreen and protective gear, as well as the implementation of policies that specifically address the health challenges of persons with albinism, including dedicated budgetary allocations for skin cancer prevention and treatment.
Additionally, Ms. Bamishe advocated for collaboration with global health organizations, donor agencies, and research institutions to develop sustainable long-term solutions that would improve healthcare access and enhance the quality of life for persons with albinism in Nigeria.
As the world marks World Cancer Day, she urged all stakeholders to stand in solidarity with AAN in the fight against skin cancer, stressing that proactive intervention can prevent avoidable deaths within the albinism community.
World Cancer Day, observed annually on 4 February, serves as a global initiative to raise awareness, promote early detection, encourage preventive measures, and push for improved access to cancer care and treatment.
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