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sunscreen ADDED TO WHO MODEL LIST OF essential medicines
For the first time, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included sunscreen in its Model List of Essential Medicines. This is particularly significant for people living with albinism, a rare genetic condition caused by mutations that reduce melanin production, making individuals highly vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The inclusion recognizes sunscreen not merely as a cosmetic product but as a life-saving medical intervention.
WHY THIS MATTERS
- Health Protection: People with albinism face daily risks of sunburn, skin damage, and preventable skin cancers.
- Social Justice: Recognition of sunscreen highlights albinism as both a public health and human rights issue.
- Scale of Impact: Around 2 lakh Indians live with albinism, including many health professionals.
WHO’S POSITION
WHO recommends that therapeutic broad-spectrum sunscreens contain proven active ingredients capable of absorbing or filtering UVA and UVB radiation. This decision sets a global benchmark, urging governments to ensure availability, affordability, and access.
INDIAN CONTEXT
Dr. Satendra Singh, Founder of Doctors with Disabilities, called this move a historic step that validates long-standing advocacy. He emphasized that beyond listing sunscreen, the real test lies in implementation, such as:
- Providing free sunscreen to those in need.
- Running awareness campaigns to reduce stigma.
- Ensuring education and health support for people with albinism.
BROADER SIGNIFICANCE
- Frames albinism as not only a health concern but also a climate justice and human rights imperative.
- Positions sunscreen as vital for ensuring dignity and equality for people facing biological vulnerabilities.
FAQs
1. What is albinism?
Albinism is a rare genetic condition caused by mutations that affect melanin production, impacting skin, hair, and eye pigmentation.
2. Why are people with albinism at greater risk?
Lack of melanin makes them highly vulnerable to UV radiation, leading to severe sunburns, skin damage, and skin cancers.
3. Why did WHO include sunscreen in the essential medicines list?
To recognize sunscreen as a vital medical intervention, not just a cosmetic product, ensuring protection against UV damage.
4. How many people in India live with albinism?
Around 2 lakh people, including some health professionals.
5. What steps are suggested for India after this recognition?
Providing free sunscreen, ending stigma through awareness campaigns, and ensuring accessible health support systems.