Archive
Stories, in full
A record of albinism news, research, and advocacy from trusted sources around the world. Reviewed by a human editor before publication.
Jane Kasweka
Livingstone, Zambia
Delphile Bandha
Livingstone, Zambia
Purity Kashweka
Livingstone, Zambia
Dorcus Siabasimbi
Livingstone, Zambia
Carolina Khaskelis from the United States is visiting Livingstone, Zambia, where she is spending time with members of the local albinism community, including Jane Kasweka, Delphile Bandha, Purity Kashweka, and Dorcus Siabasimbi. Alongside distributing essential sunscreen, Carolina is listening to their stories and learning more about their experiences, challenges, and hopes for the future.
Health & Sun ProtectionPubMed — Albinism ResearchCave fish share one genetic root for albinism
A study in Nature finds that unrelated cavefish populations across separate geographies lost pigment through the same mutation in a single gene.
Human RightsAmerican Journal of Human GeneticsAfrican genomics needs African-led AI governance
Researchers argue that AI in genomics risks deepening global inequities unless African datasets, leadership, and community trust are built from the ground up.
Health & Sun ProtectionAmerican Journal of Human GeneticsGenetic study links inner ear development to Ménière disease
A genome-wide analysis across five biobanks has identified three genes tied to inner ear development and retinoic acid signalling as significant factors in Ménière disease.
Health & Sun ProtectionJournal of Investigative DermatologyTwo skin treatments compared for UV-damaged skin
A study in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology examines how 5-fluorouracil and photodynamic therapy differ in clearing precancerous mutations from sun-damaged skin.
Health & Sun ProtectionJournal of Investigative DermatologyMouse model points to Merkel cell carcinoma's origins
A new mouse model developed by researchers at the Journal of Investigative Dermatology traces a rare and aggressive skin cancer to hair follicle cells. The finding could reshape how scientists study and treat Merkel cell carcinoma.
Myths & FactsUNHCR AfricaThe deadly myths that still surround albinism
False beliefs about albinism continue to endanger lives across multiple countries. UNHCR Africa outlines what the evidence actually says.
Africa FocusUNHCR AfricaTwo NGOs mark Christmas with Nakivale refugees
At Nakivale settlement in Uganda, two NGOs organised a Christmas gathering for vulnerable residents and people with albinism. SOS Médias Burundi reported the event.
Africa FocusUNHCR AfricaUN backs albinism forum in Tanzania
UNHCR supported a national forum in Tanzania bringing together people with albinism, policymakers, and civil society to address protection gaps.
Human RightsPubMed — Albinism ResearchNigerian researchers develop genotype test for albinism
A research team in Nigeria is working on a genotype screening approach intended to identify albinism carriers before conception. The study raises questions the community will want to follow closely.
Health & Sun ProtectionPubMed — Albinism ResearchCRISPR produces the first gene-edited lizards with albinism
Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 to disable pigmentation genes in anole lizards, producing the first reptiles with albinism created through gene editing.
Health & Sun ProtectionPubMed — Albinism ResearchGene mutations behind albinism mapped in Chinese families
A study published in Wiley Online Library examined mutations in three key genes linked to oculocutaneous albinism across Chinese families, adding to the genetic record.
Africa FocusUNHCR AfricaU.S. signals asylum pathway for Malawians with albinism
The United States has indicated it is prepared to offer asylum to people with albinism from Malawi, where ritual attacks remain an ongoing threat to safety.
Human RightsUNHCR AfricaLiberia confronts discrimination against people with albinism
A UN-backed initiative in Liberia is working to dismantle entrenched stigma facing people with albinism, where myths and social exclusion remain daily realities.
Education & InclusionUNHCR AfricaHow teachers help children with albinism thrive
UNHCR Africa outlines the specific role classroom educators play in protecting and supporting children with albinism across the continent. Every adjustment counts.
Africa FocusAllAfrica — AlbinismTanzania's universal health insurance expansion, explained
The Medical Stores Department has told Parliament it is ready to meet rising demand as Tanzania expands its Universal Health Insurance programme nationwide.
Health & Sun ProtectionAllAfrica — AlbinismSenegal sequences its first 40 human whole genomes
Institut Pasteur de Dakar has launched a genomics and early cancer detection platform, sequencing 40 human whole genomes for the first time in Senegal's history.
Health & Sun ProtectionJournal of Investigative DermatologyAI in dermatology carries a hidden environmental cost
A Journal of Investigative Dermatology study finds AI diagnostic tools demand significant energy and water — burdens that fall hardest on under-resourced communities.
Health & Sun ProtectionJournal of Investigative DermatologyGenetic mutations that raise multiple melanoma risk
Researchers in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology examined why some people develop melanoma more than once, finding inherited CDKN2A mutations at the centre.
Health & Sun ProtectionJournal of Investigative DermatologyWHO formally names skin disease a global health priority
A May 2025 World Health Assembly resolution recognised skin diseases as a global public health priority, affecting an estimated 4.5 billion people worldwide.
Health & Sun ProtectionPubMed — Albinism ResearchGenome-wide testing sharpens diagnosis of inherited eye conditions
A new study finds that genome-wide sequencing identifies causes of inherited retinal and eye conditions that standard panels routinely miss, with direct implications for people with albinism.