Sun Protection for Children with Albinism in South Africa
Author Information
Author(s): Patricia M Lund, Julie S Taylor
Primary Institution: Department of Biomolecular and Sport Science, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry, UK; School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dundee, UK
Hypothesis
The study aimed to explore the adequacy of sun protection strategies of children with oculocutaneous albinism in South Africa.
Conclusion
Children with albinism living away from home in rural areas appear to have inadequate sun protection strategies.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants were exposed to high levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year.
- Only 12% of pupils had government sponsored tubes of SPF15 cream.
- 38% of pupils were using a sunscreen with some level of SPF.
Takeaway
Kids with albinism in South Africa need better ways to protect themselves from the sun because their current methods aren't working well.
Methodology
Community based participatory research methods were used, including semi-structured interviews and observations.
Limitations
The study was conducted in one rural school and may not be generalizable to other settings.
Participant Demographics
90 pupils with oculocutaneous albinism, aged 9-19, with 40 females and 50 males.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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