Myths That Albinos Only See At Night, Don’t Eat Salt Untrue- Expert

Health experts under the aegis of the Onome Akinlolu Majaro Foundation have condemned the stigmatisation and discrimination of Albinos.

Onome Akinlolu Majaro Foundation says private and public hospitals should educate mothers about albinism after they give birth to babies with the genetic condition.

Speaking at the 2021 International Albinism Awareness Day, Onome Okagbare-Majaro, Co-founder of the foundation noted the misconception around albinism, stating that albinos suffer stigmatisation as the society lack adequate knowledge about their health condition.

“Awareness about albinism is very important. It should start from the home if we must end stigma and discrimination against persons with albinism.

“There are still children that are not loved at home and when they are not loved at home, they find it difficult to integrate into the society.

“There are still children that are exposed to the sun and the key enemy of albinism is the sun,” she said.

Noting the myths and misconceptions about albinism and people with the condition, Okagbare-Majaro said that is just a genetic condition and not a spiritual attack or a curse.

According to her, it has become imperative for private and public hospitals to take up the challenge of educating and sensitising mothers about the condition after they give birth to babies with albinism.

“Some people say albinos don’t eat salt, don’t get married, only see at night, that their blood and body parts can cure HIV and AIDS and also make you rich; this is why they are hunted like animals in East Africa. These are all untrue.

“The family has to provide a strong support system for persons living with albinism – to build their self-esteem and embolden them to be confident enough to face the many challenges of life.

“Parents must treat children with albinism as they treat their pigmented children. My parents always treated us as one and they helped us in our confidence building.

“Schools must also put adequate measures in place to ensure conducive learning for persons with albinism.

“Also, mothers should be educated about the condition during immunisation,” she said.

Speaking further, Okagbare-Majaro stressed on the need for teachers to be patient with them and encourage them to learn using new methods that put less stress on their eyes.

“Society must equally see persons with albinism first as humans above anything. This is why we preach beyond the complexion”, she said.