Hypopigmentation comes with its own challenges. On the skin it results in a high degree of sensitivity to the damaging rays of the sun. Incidence of skin cancer among persons with albinism is markedly higher than among other population groups. Naturally, prevention of skin cancer is high up on the list of healthcare needs for persons with albinism. Sadly, however primary health facilities do not adequately cater to this need, resulting in difficulty in accessing this essential prophylaxis.

Challenges with extreme light sensitivity of the eyes and poor vision, compound the difficulties experienced by persons with albinism. Adaptations to their working environment and assistive devices are required to enable optimal work. In many instances due to the costs associated with making these reasonable accommodations, employers display a preference for employing persons with other types of disabilities.

Lack of consistency in how persons with albinism are regarded results in a lack of consistency in how they are treated. This lack of consistency results among others in inability to access

sunscreen creams, social grants and jobs. The lack of knowledge regarding the condition further create challenges for persons with albinism.

The Western Cape Provincial Office (WCPO) has therefore called together strategic stakeholders from service delivery government departments such as the Departments of Health, Social Development, the South African Social Security Agency and civil society organisations to have a discussion regarding these challenges which will enable a consideration of policies relating to disability and whether such policies need to be amended to include specific reference to albinism in order to address the challenges encountered. 

International obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CPRD) will inform the discussions. In all matters relating to persons with disability the WCPO adheres to the right of persons with disabilities to shape discussions and interventions and for this reason the slogan “Nothing about us, without us” will have civil society organization Universal Change Albinism take the lead in these discussions supported by the Commission.  

Ends

For further information, contact the Western Cape Provincial Office  Advocacy and Research Consultant Ms Tammy Carter via telephone on number 021 426 2277  or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. alternatively the Provincial Manager, Ms Zena Nair @ 021 426 2277/0723626467 or email ZThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..