Story perspectives

WHO Adds Sunscreen to Essential Medicines List for Albinism

9/7/2025

Summary

Story summary

On September 5, 2025, the WHO included sunscreen in its Model List of Essential Medicines, aiding individuals with albinism.
Isaac Mwaura hailed this as a win for marginalized communities vulnerable to skin cancer.
The campaign, initiated in May 2022 by Muluka-Anne Miti-Drummond, involved the Global Albinism Alliance.
A revised proposal, initially rejected in July 2023, gained traction through petitions, leading to approval in May 2025.
The Albinism Society in Kenya collaborates with Linton Cosmetics to provide affordable sunscreen for Sh1,250.
Experts highlight the importance of this decision in sub-Saharan Africa, where 90% of individuals with albinism die before age 30 due to UV exposure.

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Story summary

On September 5, 2025, the WHO included sunscreen in its Model List of Essential Medicines, aiding individuals with albinism.
Isaac Mwaura hailed this as a win for marginalized communities vulnerable to skin cancer.
The campaign, initiated in May 2022 by Muluka-Anne Miti-Drummond, involved the Global Albinism Alliance.
A revised proposal, initially rejected in July 2023, gained traction through petitions, leading to approval in May 2025.
The Albinism Society in Kenya collaborates with Linton Cosmetics to provide affordable sunscreen for Sh1,250.
Experts highlight the importance of this decision in sub-Saharan Africa, where 90% of individuals with albinism die before age 30 due to UV exposure.