Access to Sunscreen, Protective Clothing, and Dermatologic Care Among Albino Populations in Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Study
Daniel E. Otobrise
University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, Nigeria.
Melissa O. Edeko
Outreach Women and Children Hospital, Osapa London, Lekki Lagos, Nigeria.
Chima P. Igbokwe
Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
Mbanefo C. Uyanwune *
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Albinism is a genetically inherited condition characterised by reduced or absent melanin, predisposing individuals to ultraviolet (UV)-related skin damage, including sunburns, photoaging, and skin cancers. In sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria, persons with albinism (PWA) face significant challenges in accessing preventive measures such as sunscreen, protective clothing, and dermatologic care, despite living in regions with high UV radiation exposure.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the accessibility and utilisation of sunscreen, protective clothing, and dermatologic care among albino populations in Nigeria.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 412 individuals with albinism recruited from community organisations, dermatology clinics, and advocacy groups across five geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires assessing sociodemographic characteristics, awareness of sun protection, frequency of sunscreen use, availability of protective clothing, and access to dermatologic consultations. Statistical analysis involved descriptive summaries and chi-square tests to examine associations between sociodemographic factors and access to protective resources.
Results: Of the participants, 72% reported awareness of sunscreen benefits, yet only 29% reported consistent use, largely due to high costs and limited availability. Protective clothing (wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved garments) was accessible to 48%, but only 35% used them regularly. Dermatologic care access was markedly low, with 22% having ever consulted a dermatologist. Financial barriers, lack of government support, and inadequate health education were cited as major limitations. Notably, individuals residing in urban centres had significantly better access to sunscreen and dermatologic care compared to those in rural communities (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Access to sun-protective resources among Nigerian albino populations remains limited, increasing their vulnerability to UV-induced complications. Targeted interventions, including subsidised sunscreen programs, public health education, and expansion of dermatologic services, are urgently needed to reduce health disparities and improve the quality of life for PWA.
Keywords: Albinism, sunscreen, protective clothing, dermatologic care, Nigeria