Albinism: ABC ‘20/20′ Gives Hope

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LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Friday’s episode of ‘20/20′ focused on the plight of the people in Africa who suffer from albinism. Considering that several communities in the continent believe that the body parts of the albinos have healing properties and there are several reports of hunting of the albino and selling of body parts, the albinos face great danger from the people around them. The episode focused on the albino woman whose hands were hacked, as a result of the superstitions, by the men of the village. The incident proved to be a turning point in the life of the Mariamu Staford as she found herself helpless and unable to take care of her own child. ABC highlighted the story last year and the matter received worldwide attention. In the recent episode, Mariamu Staford was shown being fitted with prosthetic limbs that gave her back her freedom.

Mariamu Staford’s case received immense media attention after the truth of the albino attacks emerged. The atrocities however continue in Africa as a case of a woman who killed her four month old baby with albinism emerged in the media recently. ABC correspondent, Juju Chang interviewed Mariamu Staford after the prosthetic arms were attached to her and the 28 year old single mother was seen to be ecstatic. The episode also showed the changes that took place in the life of the victim and also the social awareness that spread through her.

Albinism is a common disease that occurs throughout the world. People with albinism lack the coloring pigment in their hair and skin. Some of the experts feel that it is more common in countries that are close to the equator.