June 13 Marks 8th Int'l Albinism Awareness Day

International Albinism Awareness Day is observed on June 13 every year.

The day aims to create awareness about a genetic skin condition called "Albinism", and promote the rights and regulations of Albinism on a global level. It also encourages the inclusion of people suffering from Albinism in all aspects of society without any discrimination.

This year’s theme is "Inclusion is Strength," and it focuses on improving the lives of individuals with Albinism.

According to the UN, Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically inherited difference present at birth. In almost all types of albinism, both parents must carry the gene for it to be passed on, even if they do not have albinism themselves.

This condition results in a lack of pigmentation (melanin) in the hair, skin and eyes, causing vulnerability to the sun and bright light. As a result, almost all people with albinism are visually impaired and are prone to developing skin cancer, said the UN, adding that there is no cure for the absence of melanin that is central to albinism.

The UN further mentioned that in some countries people with albinism suffer discrimination, poverty, stigma, violence and even killings.

To mark the day, the UN is organizing a number of events, with the aim to put an end to the misconceptions and stereotypes related to this condition.

In 2014, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated June 13 as International Albinism Awareness Day, after recognizing Albinism as a human rights issue.