Oculocutaneous Albinism in Sub‐Saharan Africa: Adverse Sun‐Associated Health Effects and Photoprotection |
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| Authors: | Caradee Y Wright Mary Norval Richard W Hertle |
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| Institution: | 1. Climate Studies, Modelling and Environmental Health Research Group, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, South Africa;2. Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa;3. Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh, UK;4. Vision Center, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, OH;5. Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical College, Rootstown, OH |
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| Abstract: | Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a genetically inherited autosomal recessive condition. Individuals with OCA lack melanin and therefore are susceptible to the harmful effects of solar ultraviolet radiation, including extreme sun sensitivity, photophobia and skin cancer. OCA is a grave public health issue in sub‐Saharan Africa with a prevalence as high as 1 in 1000 in some tribes. This article considers the characteristics and prevalence of OCA in sub‐Saharan African countries. Sun‐induced adverse health effects in the skin and eyes of OCA individuals are reviewed. Sun exposure behavior and the use of photoprotection for the skin and eyes are discussed to highlight the major challenges experienced by these at‐risk individuals and how these might be best resolved. |
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