ML Filter | Support for people with albinism

Albinism affects the eyes in the same way everywhere, but in Africa the challenges are greater. Strong sunlight, constant UV radiation and limited access to protection or care make visual problems more pronounced.

The Albinova Project

Jörgen Gustafsson, a former long-time employee at Multilens, has just been appointed Adjunct Professor at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology. During his recent visit, the Albinova Project, a research project sponsored by the Märta and Nils Barthelsson Foundation, was launched.

The aim is to gain a better understanding of the visual function and the functional visual ability of people with albinism in Kakamega County, Kenya, and in the northern region of Malawi.

Participants are divided into younger individuals (6–18 years) and adults (18 years and above), with recruitment taking place through the regional albinism associations.

Test examples

• Uncorrected high contrast (100%) VA

• Subjective refraction

• Cycloplegic streak retinoscopy (for age 6-18 years)

• Best corrected visual acuity – 100% contrast

• Best corrected visual acuity – 10% contrast

• Titmus Fly test

• Habitual low vision devices

• Preference of tinted glasses

• Quality of life questionnaires

Visual aids

Thanks to donations from the Swedish company Multilens, filter solutions and other tinted glasses can be provided to relieve light sensitivity.

Low vision devices from Scandinavian low vision clinics are also being distributed.

In addition, some participants receive recycled prescription glasses from the Swedish organisation Vision for All and the American organisation SVOSH.