Perception and challenges related to the practice of photoprotection among people with albinism in Mbujimayi, in the center of the Democratic Republic of Congo

Résumé fourni par la source

Introduction: People with albinism (PAA) are more vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation, with skin risks. These risks require them to practice adequate photoprotection. The aim of our study was to investigate the perceptions and challenges associated with photoprotection among people with albinism in Mbujimayi. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted over a period of one month among people with albinism of all sexes and ages, with strict respect for their anonymity. Results: Of 89 PAA, 93% were aware of the existence of photoprotective cream and said that exposure to the sun was harmful. Sunbathing hours were not respected in 13% of cases, wearing clothing covering the body, a wide-brimmed hat, using a sunshade and wore sunglasses. Most had applied sun cream for the first time between the ages of 19 and 25. Only applied it every time they were exposed to the sun and did so without a specific schedule. Access to cream was difficult for 78% of PAA, and the most common reasons for this were stock shortages (80 %) and high cost (20 %). Conclusion: Despite the current state of knowledge of PAA in Mbujimayi, it is important to raise awareness of sunscreens so that their use can be initiated at an early age, thereby effectively preventing avoidable skin complications caused by ultraviolet rays.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.