Wednesday

"I HAVE AN ALBINO CHILD, WHAT DO I DO?. . ."


From the article, BLACK MOTHER, BLACK FATHER, WHITE CHILD, WHO IS TO BLAME?, it has been well established that albinism isn't a curse, neither is it a taboo. Have that behind your mind.

If this breaks your heart, I'm so sorry, but I just have to say it anyways. There is NO cure for albinism. HOWEVER, there are things you can do to help your child.

HERE IS WHAT YOU CAN DO. . .

Albinism comes with a lot of other health issues, like, eye problems (e.g poor vision, squinting eyes, nystagmus, etc), skin problems, and other allergies might be involved too.
Also NOTE!!!

Due to the lack of the melanin pigment in their skin, they are at increased risk of sunburn and skin cancer, which are caused by sunlight damaging the skin.

About the eye problems, it is strongly advised that you take the child for regular visit to an optician or ophthalmologist. They are in the best position to examine and profer the best solutions to whatever the case may be.

Also, make sure you prevent the child from going out when it is very hot and the sun is at its strongest (between 11am and 3pm). And you can always wear them clothes that cover up their skins well. 
 
 
And most of all, LOVE YOUR CHILD. S/he needs so much of care, attention, and affection from you.

BUT YOU NEED TO HELP YOURSELF TOO. . .

If you have a history of albinism in your family, or you have a child with the condition, you are advised to go for genetic counselling.

Genetic counselling is a service that provides support, information and advice about genetic conditions.

Genetic testing can be used to find out whether a person is carrying a specific genetic mutation (altered gene) that causes a particular medical condition.

An adult or child diagnosed with albinism may also be referred for genetic counselling to discuss how the condition was inherited and what the chances are of passing the condition on.

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