Protecting skin: the vital distribution of SPF 50+ sunscreen

The absence of melanin exposes the skin of people living with albinism to critical risks under the equatorial sun. In East and West Africa, particularly in Benin, without effective sun protection, the vast majority of young albino people develop early skin lesions that can progress to aggressive cancers by adolescence. Facing this health emergency, the NGO Albi International organizes sunscreen distribution campaigns throughout the national territory.

An invisible enemy: ultraviolet radiation

Melanin acts as a natural shield against the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. In a person with albinism, this shield is non-existent. Under Benin's intense sun, a few minutes of unprotected exposure are enough to cause second-degree burns. Repeating these sunburns severely alters the DNA of skin cells, leading to the appearance of actinic keratoses, then squamous cell carcinomas or melanomas.

Yet, this tragedy is 100% preventable. Regular application of a very high protection sunscreen (SPF 50+ index) allows creating an artificial protective barrier and avoiding the onset of these fatal pathologies.

The logistics of solidarity: delivering help

Procuring medical-grade sunscreen in Benin is extremely difficult and expensive for vulnerable families. A bottle can cost the equivalent of several weeks' income, making prevention inaccessible.

Albi International has set up an international solidarity network to collect bottles from European pharmaceutical laboratories and individual donors. These donations are transported via secure logistics to Cotonou, then distributed directly during health caravans in remote communities of the country, ensuring that each tube of cream is delivered directly by hand.

Beyond distribution: clinical screening

Distributing sunscreen is not enough. During each caravan, the NGO collaborates with volunteer Beninese dermatologists who perform comprehensive skin exams for each beneficiary. These consultations make it possible to spot suspicious lesions and plan medical care or light surgical interventions before the cancer spreads.

This global action combines primary prevention (sun protection) and secondary prevention (early screening), saving dozens of lives every year in Benin.