10 Years of IAAD: A Decade of Collective Progress
International Albinism Awareness Day is observed on June 13 and is a United Nations (UN) observance. It aims to celebrate the dignity of people living with Albinism and raise awareness about the challenges they face, promoting inclusion and equality. It is a rare genetic condition that results in little or no production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of the skin, hair, and eyes. It affects people of all ethnic backgrounds. In many parts of the world, especially in some African countries, people with Albinism face deep-rooted discrimination due to myths and superstitions. Yes, Albinism is hereditary. While a cure is not currently available, research in genetics and gene therapy is ongoing. In the future, scientific advances may lead to better treatments or even ways to correct some of the genetic causes. Discriminating against people for a reason one is not responsible is a wrong that is committed. We need to advocate to the world that embracing diversity and understanding it is the need of the hour. Unfortunately, it is not restricted to Albinism.Â
Shining a Light on Difference
International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) is observed on June 13 and is a United Nations (UN) observance. The observation aims to celebrate the dignity of people living with Albinism and raise awareness about the challenges they face, promoting inclusion and equality. Often, people are addressed as “albino” and used in a derogatory way. It is the 10th year of the observation.
By Embracing Differences,
We Build Stronger and Kinder Communities.
Albinism is a rare genetic condition that results in little or no production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of the skin, hair, and eyes. It affects people of all ethnic backgrounds. In many parts of the world, especially in some African countries, people with Albinism face deep-rooted discrimination due to myths and superstitions. While exact numbers vary by region, global estimates suggest 1 in 18,000 to 20,000 people worldwide are born with some form of Albinism. In sub-Saharan Africa, the prevalence is higher. In countries like Tanzania, it is estimated to be 1 in 1,400. In Europe and North America, the rate is somewhat lower. It is estimated that over 400,000 people around the world live with Albinism. Â
Yes, Albinism is hereditary. It is a genetic condition passed from parents to their children. Most forms of Albinism, including the most common type (Oculocutaneous Albinism), are inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. So even if both parents look typical, they can still have a child with Albinism if they are both carriers of the gene.
While Albinism Itself Cannot Be Cured,
Many of Its Associated Challenges Can Be Managed Effectively.
Yes, Albinism is not curable. It is a genetic condition present from birth and persists throughout a person’s lifetime. Albinism is caused by mutations in specific genes that affect the production of melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin, hair, and eyes. While a cure is not currently available, research in genetics and gene therapy is ongoing. In the future, scientific advances may lead to better treatments or even ways to correct some of the genetic causes.
Albinism is Not a Disease. It is a Difference.
Albinism cannot be developed later in life. Other conditions that cause loss of pigmentation over time, such as Vitiligo and Waardenburg syndrome, can be misinterpreted as Albinism. Suppose someone notices a progressive loss of pigmentation in the skin, hair, or eyes later in life. It is necessary to consult a healthcare provider to rule out other potential medical conditions.
It is not uncommon for people to spend a fortune to look fair. A significant industry is thriving on it. However, someone may be born with a fairer complexion due to a lack of pigment. They are discriminated against. This is due to the human inability to coexist with diversity. It is the genes inherited by the child from their parents that are responsible for the condition. Ironically, the same parents often struggle to accept the child. As JK Rowling said, “Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be recovery”. Discriminating against people for a reason one is not responsible is a wrong that is committed. We need to advocate to the world that embracing diversity and understanding it is the need of the hour. Unfortunately, it is not restricted to Albinism.
Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be recovery.
J.K. Rowling
Toons: Reema
Logs: M Sai Baba
ToonLogs The ToonLogs posted on the same theme can be accessed at: https://niascomm.in/2021/06/13/international-albinism-awareness-day/
