The Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (APAM) says over 70 percent of people with albinism in the country are suffering from skin cancer, with only five percent surviving the disease.

APAM National Coordinator, Maynard Zachariah, attributed the rise in skin cancer cases to the limited availability of sunscreen lotion, which is mostly found in urban government hospitals with a challenge in rural areas where most persons with albinism live without access.

He added that poverty also contributes to the problem, as many families cannot afford sun protective clothing and other preventive materials.

“The number of persons with albinism who have skin cancer might be higher because as APAM  we do not have complete data for the entire population, as most of people with albinism are in rural areas,”said Zachariah.

He further explained that 95 percent of those diagnosed with skin cancer die from the disease, a situation that has led to psychological distress among people with albinism, with some resorting to suicide after diagnosis.

“The poverty levels make it difficult for persons with albinism to follow protective measures,many walk long distances to school, and most are engaged in jobs that expose them to direct sunlight,” he added.

Zachariah emphasized the need for proper data collection in hospitals to ensure equitable distribution of resources such as sunscreen lotion and protective wear across all districts.

Meanwhile, Kamuzu Central Hospital Dermatologist, Dr. Esther Mzumara, confirmed an increase in skin cancer cases among persons with albinism, she said the survival rate remains low because most patients are diagnosed late.

“The issue of skin cancer among persons with albinism is linked to a lack of knowledge and limited awareness,as a doctor, I often meet parents who have children with albinism but do not know how to protect them from the sun,” said  Mzumara.

She added that the government is collaborating with various organizations to raise awareness, conduct regular screenings, and distribute protective materials, especially in rural areas.