Albinism a big challenge in public health in Africa

3^rd Global Experts Meeting on Medical Case Reports

May 09-10, 2016 New Orleans, USA

Stella Severine

Seoul National University, South Korea

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Clin Case Rep

Abstract :

Background: Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a genetically inherited autosomal recessive condition and OCA2, tyrosine-positive albinism, is the most prevalent type found throughout Africa. Due to the lack of melanin, people with albinism are more susceptible to the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation exposure. This population must deal with issues such as photophobia, decreased visual acuity, extreme sun sensitivity and skin cancer. People with albinism also face social discrimination as a result of their difference in appearance. The World Health Organization is currently investigating the issues concerning this vulnerable population. Methods: A pilot survey of albinism was drafted and distributed to some African countries through some health African Regional Offices in an attempt to gather information on albinism. Furthermore, systematic electronic search of articles in PubMed concerning albinism in Africa was done to get further information. Results: Epidemiologic data on albinism, such as prevalence were available for South Africa, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Nigeria. Prevalences as high as 1 in 1,000 were reported for selected populations in Zimbabwe and other specific ethnic groups in Southern Africa. An overall estimation of albinism prevalence ranges from 1/5,000-1/15,000. In addition, both the literature review and the survey underscored the medical and social issues facing people with albinism. Conclusion: The estimated prevalence of albinism suggests the existence of tens of thousands of people living with albinism in Africa. This finding reiterates the need for increased awareness of and public health interventions for albinism in order to better address the medical, psychological and social needs of this vulnerable population.

Biography :

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