Group calls for skin cancer integration in health insurance

The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has called on the Federal Government to include free skin cancer treatment and regular dermatological check-ups for persons with albinism in public hospitals. Bisi Bamishe, its National President, said this in a statement on Sunday, ahead of the commemoration of World Cancer Day on the 4th of February..

Bamishe emphasised that skin cancer should be integrated in the national health insurance package, butressing that the group had lost three of its members from the disease within a few days. According to her, for years, persons with albinism in Nigeria have faced significant health challenges, including extreme vulnerability to skin cancer due to the lack of melanin in their skin.

“The absence of structured government interventions, including access to free or subsidised skin cancer treatments, preventive measures such as sunscreen distribution, and specialised dermatological care, has left our community in a state of despair.

“Without immediate action, we will continue to witness the preventable deaths of our members,” she said.

To address this crisis, Bamishe said AAN has conducted multiple advocacy visits to key national and state stakeholders, raising awareness about the pressing health needs of persons with albinism.

“We have engaged policymakers, health authorities, and legislators, urging them to implement sustainable policies that will ensure access to affordable healthcare, routine skin cancer screening, and the provision of lifesaving treatments for affected persons.

“However, the time for mere discussions has passed. We need tangible, swift, and decisive actions to save lives,” Bamishe said.

She also stated the need for the provision of sunscreen and protective gear, and policy implementation that addresses the health challenges of persons with albinism, including budgetary allocations for skin cancer prevention and treatment. Bamishe also encouraged collaboration with global health organisations, donor agencies, and research institutions to develop long-term solutions that would improve healthcare access and quality of life for PWAs in Nigeria.

The president urged all stakeholders to stand with AAN in the fight against skin cancer, as the global community observes World Cancer Day. World Cancer Day, celebrated annually on February . 4th , is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about cancer, promoting early detection, prevention, and treatment, and advocating for improved healthcare access for cancer patients.

This year’s celebration has the theme “United by Unique.”

NAN/S.S