Albinism and Skin Cancer Kromberg, et al, (1989) investigated the presence of skin cancer in 111 individuals with albinism belonging to the Black population of Johannesburg. The overall rate was 23.4%, the risk increasing with age. Identifiable risk factors included: environmental exposure to ultraviolet radiation; inability to produce ephelides (freckles); and possibly ethnicity. The head was the site most commonly affected, and squamous cell carcinoma was far more common than basal cell carcinoma. No melanomas were detected. Besides giving skin, eyes, and hair their colour, melanin helps protect the skin from the sun. It does this by causing skin to tan instead of burn — which is why people with darker skin (more melanin) are less likely to burn than people with lighter skin. So people with albinism can sunburn very easily. People with light skin are also particularly at risk for skin cancer. So it is important for people with albinism to use a sunscreen at all times and to wear clothing that offers protection from the sun, such as broad rimmed hats, dark-coloured clothing, or long pants and long-sleeved shirts. Prejudice and Albinism People with albinism are just like anyone else, with the same lifespan and ability to reach their goals. But living with any medical condition during the teen years can be difficult, and albinism is no exception. Because the social scene can be more about fitting in than standing out, teens with albinism may face bullying or prejudice. Voicing any frustration or sadness to a family member or friend who understands can help. So can talking to a counsellor or therapist to get ideas on coping with the challenges that come up during the teen years. There is growing evidence of social discrimination and stigmatisation directed towards this population. Along with their differences in appearance, a lack of knowledge about albinism in the community leads to such stigma. For example, the aetiological beliefs about albinism continue to be heavily influenced by culture and superstition, rather than genetics. Best Sunscreen for People with Albinism People with albinism should use sunscreens labelled SPF 20 to 30. Using sunscreens with SPF higher than 30 offers little benefit, and more concentrated chemicals might be more likely to irritate or cause an allergic rash in individuals with albinism. The FDA also proposes limiting the SPF factor to 30. Titanium and zinc oxide screens provide very broad spectrum coverage and are ideal for people with albinism. (National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation). South African Support Groups There is still a certain amount of stigmatisation of people with albinism in the South African community. Both public education about the condition and counselling for affected individuals and their families are required. A small parent support group in Johannesburg has been functioning under the auspices of SAIDA with more than 30 members all over the country. The objectives of this group are to educate the public about albinism, to provide support for affected families and to support research into the condition. A second large group (with more than 200 members) has also been established in Soweto. (Albinism Society of South Africa).
Posted on: Tue, 18 Mar 2014 07:17:42 +0000
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