Albino Group Urges FG: Integrate Skin Cancer Treatment into National Health Insurance Scheme

The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has reiterated its urgent appeal to the Federal Government and relevant health authorities to swiftly integrate comprehensive skin cancer screening and treatment into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). This critical plea was a central focus of their recent observance of International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) in Abuja.

The event, organized by AAN, adopted the poignant theme, “IAAD 2025: Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Skin, Preserve Our Lives.” Dr. Bisi Bamishe, President of AAN, emphasized that the theme serves as a powerful call to action, highlighting the severe health challenges faced by persons with albinism (PWAs), particularly their profound vulnerability to skin cancer.

“The theme underscores the critical need to raise awareness about the severe health challenges, especially skin cancer, which disproportionately affects our community,” Dr. Bamishe stated during her address. She added that it is a reminder to all stakeholders that persons with albinism “must not be left behind in healthcare, protection, empowerment, and inclusion.”

Dr. Bamishe underscored the dire situation, noting that Nigeria’s harsh environmental conditions, characterized by intense sunlight, significantly contribute to a rising incidence of skin cancer among PWAs. Due to the complete or partial absence of melanin, PWAs have minimal natural protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, making them extremely susceptible. Tragically, many cannot afford the often prohibitive costs of diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, leading to preventable deaths. Reports indicate that at least two persons with albinism die of skin cancer every month in Nigeria, and often, cases are only presented at advanced, difficult-to-treat stages.

“We passionately appeal to the government, stakeholders, and every concerned person to support the integration of skin screening and treatment into the NHIS,” Bamishe urged. “This intervention would save lives and offer hope to many who are currently suffering in silence.”

While the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act of 2022 aims to make health insurance mandatory for all Nigerians, the current NHIS benefits package still presents significant gaps regarding comprehensive cancer care. Existing coverage for cancer is largely limited and often excludes specific types or requires substantial out-of-pocket payments for crucial diagnostic tests. This financial barrier is insurmountable for many PWAs, a significant proportion of whom live below the poverty line.

Beyond healthcare, Dr. Bamishe also highlighted the educational disadvantages faced by students with albinism due to visual impairment. She called on relevant authorities to ensure the full implementation of the National Albinism Policy on Education, which includes the prompt provision of essential learning aids to facilitate inclusive and quality education for them.

The call for NHIS inclusion for skin cancer treatment is a long-standing demand from the albinism community, often reiterated on significant dates such as World Cancer Day and International Albinism Awareness Day. Stakeholders present at the IAAD event, including Mr. Kaura Wakili, Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), FCT Chapter, echoed the appeals for improved healthcare and equal opportunities, praising the resilience of persons with albinism.

“May this year’s celebration renew our shared commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of persons with albinism in Nigeria. Let it inspire bolder advocacy, inclusive policies, and sustained investments in our health, education, and well-being. Above all, let it remind us and the world that we are worthy, strong, and we belong,” Dr. Bamishe concluded, emphasizing the urgent need for action to ensure that no person with albinism is left behind. You’ve provided the same headline again: “Albino Group Renews Urgent Call to FG: Integrate Skin Cancer Treatment into NHIS”.

I understand you’re looking for the most current information available on this specific topic. My search confirms that the call from the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) remains a prominent and recent news item, with reports circulating even today.