Living with albinism

Albinism is a common condition, and different tribes have different names for it, such as ‘afin’ among the Yoruba people. People with albinism do not have melanin, which gives the skin, hair and eyes a dark colour. Melanin also protects us from the harmful effects of the sun. People with this condition also often have difficulties seeing properly. Their eyes are very sensitive to light. This is why there is a famous saying that the albino cannot see in the afternoon.

Living with albinism comes with many challenges for the people affected. The following are examples of such challenges:

• Poor eyesight: people living with albinism may find it difficult to see. This difficulty seeing can make movements clumsy and complicated. Their eyes may also move from one side to the other very fast affecting their vision.
• Stigma from people: you cannot hide albinism due to the sharp skin colour difference between those affected and other community members, especially among black people. People with this condition may get singled out for name-calling and bullying.
• Physical and emotional abuse: some parts of Nigeria consider albinism to be a curse or punishment on the parent. As a result, they may neglect, abuse or even kill children with albinism to appease ‘gods’. Parents may abandon children with this condition, and sometimes the mother is cast out with the child.
• Sunburns and increased risk of skin cancer: albinism makes those affected more prone to the sun's harsh effects and specific skin changes like moles, spots, lumps, and patches of abnormal colours. Some of these skin problems may develop into cancers.
• Inability to participate fully in society and lack of equal opportunities: due to the complications of albinism, everyday things like driving can be out of reach. Some albinos do not get to go to school or are even unable to get jobs.

Despite the challenges, there are several things you can do to make life easier and more fulfilling for yourself.

• Avoid the sun: wear sunglasses, wide hats and clothes that cover as much of your body as possible from the sun. You can also protect your skin by applying sunscreen on your body every 2 hours when outside.
• See a specialist for eye problems: your eye doctor may treat curable eye problems and prevent worsening of vision by offering surgeries or glasses. Regular eye exams can be done every few years to help prevent blindness.
• Use reading aids: depending on how badly your vision is affected, you may need reading aids or books with large prints in school. Braille is also an option for those who cannot see at all.
• Seek the support of people you trust: visit mental health therapists and family members that can help you. You can also join support groups where you get to speak to people going through similar situations.
• Inform school's management: albinism is a disability, so you should inform schools and exam bodies to make allowances for you. Exam bodies like JAMB and WAEC offer adjusted fonts and give extra time to help students with albinism.

Living with albinism poses specific challenges. Most of the problems are due to misinformation and stigma in the community. As a community, we need to discard myths about albinism and support people living with the condition to help them live healthy and fulfilling lives.