For the Community of Persons with Albinism in Cuba (CPAC), based in the province of Holguin. It represents a historic milestone that the World Health Organization (WHO) recently approved broad-spectrum sunscreen in the twenty-fourth edition of the Model List of Essential Medicines (MEL) and in the tenth edition of the Essential Medicines List for Children (EMLc).
According to Iliana Pupo Herrera, creator and National Coordinator of the Piel de Coral Community, “This news was achieved thanks to the impact and reach of the global campaign launched in November 2024 by the Global Albinism Alliance (GAA). In collaboration with the United Nations Independent Expert on Albinism, Standing Voice, Beyond Suncare, the Pierre Fabre Foundation, the International League of Dermatology Societies (ILDS), and the African Albinism Network (AAN), where Cuba was among the signatory countries that joined the petition.”
But why does this news represent an achievement for the albino community?
It turns out that people with albinism face a much higher risk of skin cancer, caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays, due to the lack of melanin in their skin. For them, sunscreen becomes a necessity, rather than a luxury.
In Cuba, and especially in the province of Holguin, important steps have been taken to improve the rights of these individuals. The Orfilio Peláez Provincial Retinitis Pigmentosa Center in the provincial capital is home to the country’s first comprehensive clinic for the care of those born with this condition. Providing ophthalmology, dermatology, and psychological support services, this clinic will celebrate its third anniversary on September 21st.
The Community of People with Albinism in Cuba, established in March 2023 in Holguin, currently welcomes more than 700 members nationwide.
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