One in every 700 Fijians may have albinism, says Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa.
Speaking at the International Albinism Awareness Day celebrations in Suva yesterday, Mr Ravunawa said there was a lack of national data on the condition.
“Globally, albinism affects approximately one in 20,000 people,” Mr Ravunawa said.
“In Fiji, it is estimated that one in every 700 Fijians may have albinism, though we must acknowledge that reliable national data remains lacking.”
He said the Health Ministry was working to close the gap through the active registration of all persons living with albinism (PLWA) in Fiji.
“We also recognise that this community faces not just health risks but also widespread discrimination, social exclusion and, in some parts of the world, violence and stigma.
“While Fiji has been spared the most extreme forms of abuse, we are not immune to the structural and social barriers that prevent full inclusion, access to healthcare and equal opportunity.”
Mr Ravunawa says the ministry has been doing its best to support people living with albinism.
“An allocation of $200,000 in the ministry’s budget this year has enabled the ministry’s albinism program to facilitate increased skin cancer screening and outreach programs, targeting people with albinism in both urban and rural areas.”
