Africa Albinism Network’s Post

I can think of nothing more egregious than the level of discrimination and brutality faced by people with albinism. There is now an alarming rise in skin cancer due to increased UV exposure from climate change that is claiming the lives of young people with albinism. Proud to be supporting this important #climatejustice campaign led by the Africa Albinism Network to make sunscreen available to people with albinisim.

Today, February 29th 📅, the Global Albinism Alliance stands in solidarity with all communities of people living with a rare health condition around the world 🌍. 📢We call for greater recognition, inclusion and participation in society. Regardless of the region, albinism is rare. In Sub-Saharan Africa it affects 1 in 4,000 to 7,000 people. In Europe, 1 in 12,000 to 15,000. Albinism shares many challenges with the other 6,000+ known rare health conditions: 👉 lack of public awareness making the challenges often invisible and unrecognized. 👉 limited research, medical knowledge and expertise leading to difficulties to obtain a proper diagnosis and access the appropriate health and social care. 👉 impact going way beyond health. It is felt in every aspect of life, by both persons with albinism and their families. 👉 multiple inequities and vulnerabilities, including difficult inclusion and integration in mainstream education systems, discrimination and social exclusion, challenges in accessing and retaining decent work, and a greater risk of impoverishment. 👉 Enhanced stigma and other barriers experienced by women and mothers. The Global Albinism Alliance is a member of RARE DISEASES INTERNATIONAL (the global alliance of persons living with a rare disease or condition) and supports the #RareDerm Program of GlobalSkin - International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations. #RareDiseaseDay #AlbinismAwareness #RareDiseases #Albinism #RareDiseaseDay2024 Photo Credits: Patricia Willocq - White Ebony

The annual observance of International Albinism Awareness Day is marked every June 13th. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about albinism – a rare, genetically inherited condition that causes individuals to have extremely light skin, hair, and eyes. As the state ICT Agency, we recognize technology's vital role in raising awareness and supporting individuals with albinism. Our commitment to leveraging technology for awareness and inclusion remains resolute. On this special occasion, we would like to share some technological resources that society can adopt to enhance the lives of individuals with albinism. > We should utilize our digital platforms and social media channels to disseminate accurate information about albinism, dispelling myths and misconceptions. > Hosting webinars and online workshops featuring experts in the field, including healthcare professionals and advocates, can educate the public and foster a deeper understanding of albinism. > Creating and promoting digital campaigns will advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with albinism across society. Additionally, ensuring accessible e-government services will provide them equal access to resources and support. > Promoting telehealth services can provide accessible healthcare for individuals with albinism, particularly for eye check-ups and skin consultations. Additionally, endorsing digital tools and apps for UV monitoring and sun protection reminders will further support their health and well-being. By leveraging our technological capabilities, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with albinism. Together, let's harness the power of technology to make a meaningful impact on International Albinism Awareness Day and beyond. #AlbinismAwarenessDay #DigitalInclusion #InclusionIsStrength

World Health Organization removed sunscreen from the Essential Medicines List and this has caused detrimental effects and surival burden for people with albinism especially in the Low Income Countries (LICs) such as Africa where governments are failing to provide this human right to PWA. Melanoma Skin Cancer cases continue to sore up exponentially increasing the morbidity and mortality rates. Climate Change and global warming has placed vulnerable and marginalised persons with albinism at high risk to susceptibility to skin cancer. Life expectancy for PWA continued to dwindle due to poverty, poor access to skin care needs and institutional incapacities. Our clarion call as organisations focusing on Albinism in Zimbabwe is to pressure World Health Organization to reinstate Suncreen back on the Essential Medicines List. People with albinism are humans too, they deserve healthier livelihoods , denying them the right to access to suncreen is tantamount to denying them their human rights,their very right to life. Repost and join the cause. Together we can Aldridge Nyasha Mazhindu Albinism. ICanBe Campaign Albinism Advocacy for Access Africa Albinism Network INITIATIVE ZERO DISCRIMINATION ALBINISME AU BURUNDI D'ICI 2028 Global Albinism Alliance Sarah L. Bosha Amnesty International Muluka-Anne Miti-Drummond UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency United Nations Melanoma Research Alliance Melanoma Research Foundation Melanoma Canada KTH Royal Institute of Technology ActionAid

In Tanzania, where albinism affects 1 in 1,400 people, a dark reality lies. Since 2000, more than 75 persons with albinism have been reported killed, their bodies sought for twisted rituals. Even children aren't spared. Just this May, a 10-year-old child almost lost his arm in an attack, In a separate incident, another child, Asimwe Novath, was abducted by unknown individuals two weeks ago. Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin, which affects skin, hair, and eye color.. Globally, albinism occurs in about 1 in 5,000 people in Sub-Saharan Africa and 1 in 20,000 people in Europe and North America. In some countries, a majority of persons with albinism die from skin cancer between 30 and 40 years of age. Skin cancer is highly preventable when persons with albinism enjoy their right to health—well, i almost forgot, In Tz constitution there is no express provision on right fo health.. International Albinism Awareness Day, June 13th, is a chance to change the narrative. We must raise awareness, not just about the beauty of albinism, but the fight these individuals face. Source: UN #AlbinismAwarenessDay #Tanzania #RightToHealth

Today is the International Albinism Awareness Day!!! With the Resolution A/RES/69/170; The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed June 13th as International Albinism Awareness Day and urge all nations and communities to protect and fulfil the human rights of all persons with albinism and provide necessary support and care. During the Day we reflect on the resilience, perseverance and achievements of people with albinism in the face of pervasive misconceptions, discrimination and violence. Albinism is a rare, genetically inherited condition. Albinism is extremely rare, meaning both parents must carry the gene for the child to inherit the condition. The condition is found in both sexes regardless of ethnicity. Albinism results in a lack of pigmentation in the person affected by it — this means they have uncharacteristically light hair, skin, and eyes. This increases the risks associated with exposure to the sun and bright light. As a result, almost all people with albinism are visually impaired and at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. There is currently no cure for this condition.

*Day 19 :The Role of Faith and Spirituality in Coping with Breast Cancer* For countless people facing the challenge of breast cancer, faith and spirituality are pillars of strength. You know, in many of our communities, when someone falls ill, the first reaction is to pray. People lean on their faith to get through tough times, believing that, with God, all things are possible. In Cameroon, it’s not uncommon for cancer patients to seek comfort in their spiritual beliefs. Whether it’s through prayer, going to church or mosque, or just holding onto a strong faith, many find peace in knowing they’re not alone in the battle. Faith becomes the anchor that keeps them grounded when the world feels overwhelming. But here’s the thing faith and medicine don’t need to be at odds. The CDC (2021) found that when spiritual care is combined with medical treatment, patients tend to feel more at peace and even report better outcomes. It’s not about choosing between trusting in God and trusting in doctors; it’s about letting both work together. You see, having faith doesn’t mean turning away from medical help. It means believing that God can work through the hands of doctors and through the medicine they provide. “God hand strong pass any sick.” (Translation: God’s hand is stronger than any illness.) This saying resonates with many people in our communities because it acknowledges the power of faith while also leaving room for the importance of seeking treatment. Yes, trust in God, but also trust in the process of healing that modern medicine offers. Combining the strength of faith with the best medical care available gives patients the emotional and physical support they need to keep fighting. For those of you supporting loved ones battling breast cancer, remember to encourage them to stay strong in their faith while also being proactive in seeking medical care. In grassroots communities, this balance can be challenging, especially with limited access to health services. But with more awareness and understanding, we can help bridge that gap, ensuring that no one has to choose between faith and healthcare. Let’s continue to uplift those facing this difficult journey, reminding them that strength comes from many sources both spiritual and medical. Together, we can make sure that faith remains a source of comfort, not a barrier to seeking life-saving treatment. #FaithInHealing #SpiritualityAndCancer #PBOHICares #GodAndMedicine

The duration of migraines can vary, with some lasting just a few hours and others lingering for several days. Learn more about the potential factors that may influence the length of a migraine episode at the link.

🌸𝐷𝑎𝑦 19 :𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑅𝑜𝑙𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝐹𝑎𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑆𝑝𝑖𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑖𝑛 𝐶𝑜𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝐵𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝐶𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒𝑟 ➕⚖️🏥 --- In Cameroon and other countries, it’s common for cancer patients to seek comfort and hope in their spiritual beliefs. Whether it’s through prayer, going to church or mosque, or just holding onto a strong faith, many find peace in knowing they’re not alone in the battle. Faith becomes the anchor that keeps them grounded when the world feels overwhelming. But here’s the thing 𝗳𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗱𝗱𝘀. The CDC (2021) found that when spiritual care is combined with medical treatment, patients tend to feel more at peace and even report better outcomes. It’s not about choosing between trusting in God and trusting in doctors; it’s about letting both work together. 👂 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗹 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝘂𝘁. 𝗜𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗚𝗼𝗱 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗼𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲. #SpiritualityAndCancer #PBOHICares #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth

‏Migration can be compared to an organ transplant from two perspectives. Leaving one’s homeland is like the failure of an organ in the body; an organ that can no longer sustain life, forcing the individual to seek a new solution. Relocating to a new land is like an organ transplant, where a new organ must adapt to its new environment and body. ‏Just as in organ transplants, the host body may accept the new organ and continue to thrive with it, in migration, sometimes the individual successfully adapts to the new culture and conditions and finds their place. However, in some cases, this process faces significant challenges, and like the rejection of the new organ by the body, either the host society or the migrant may not fully adjust, leading to difficulties and disappointment in the migration experience. #Migration #OrganTransplant #CulturalAdaptation #ImmigrationJourney #CulturalIntegration #GlobalMovement #LifeTransitions