Affiliation:
1. Department of Internal Medicine Dermatology Unit, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital Uyo Nigeria
2. Department of Internal Medicine University of Uyo Teaching Hospital Uyo Nigeria
3. Department of Medicine University College Hospital Ibadan Nigeria
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundStrict photoprotection is crucial for persons living with albinism (PWAs), especially in Nigeria where the level of solar ultraviolet radiation is particularly high, which further increases the susceptibility of this population to develop photodermatoses and, ultimately, skin cancer.ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude towards photoprotection among PWAs in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, Nigeria.MethodsA descriptive cross‐sectional study involving consenting 50 participants with oculocutaneous albinism was recruited through interviewer‐administered questionnaires. Data analysis utilised SPSS 26.ResultsThe use of sun‐protective clothing was the predominant photoprotective measure (62%) with an overall low sun‐protection strategy usage of 5% and 10% knowledge rate, despite 80% acknowledging the daily use of various forms of photoprotection. Cost was cited as the commonest deterrent to poor use of sunscreen (47.8%).ConclusionsPoor awareness and photoprotection usage amongst persons with albinism in Uyo are discouragingly below standard increasing their risk of developing photodermatoses which adversely affects their quality of life. Therefore, dermatologists should improve collaborative efforts at addressing barriers such as cost and enhancing knowledge about effective photoprotection strategies.
Reference12 articles.
1. Albinism
2. Determining a Worldwide Prevalence of Oculocutaneous Albinism: A Systematic Review
3. Quality of life and photodermatoses in people with albinism in ogun state;Ijioma CE;Nigeria Acta Sci Med Sci,2023
4. Sunscreen use among albinos in Enugu, South-Eastern Nigeria
5. Sun‐protection strategies amongst people living with albinism in Benin‐city, Southern Nigeria;Madubuko CR;Res J Health Sci,2021