Albinism

What is albinism?

Albinism is a genetic condition passed down when both parents carry the albinism gene. It’s not contagious or a curse, just a rare, inherited condition! It results in lighter-thannormal skin, hair, and eyes and often comes with vision challenges like sensitivity to light or difficulty focusing. People with albinism often have sensitive skin and vision problems

What causes it?

• It happens when both parents carry the albinism gene (even if they don’t have albinism themselves).

Symptoms?

• An absence of color in the skin, hair or eyes
• Patches of skin that have an absence of color
• Lighter than normal colouring of the skin, hair and eyes

How do doctors know someone has albinism?

Doctors diagnose albinism by looking at the person’s skin, hair, and eye. They may also do an eye exam to check for vision problems. Sometimes, they compare the person’s skin to other family members to see if it’s albinism or just lighter skin. The most accurate way to confirm albinism is through a genetic test that checks for the specific genes causing it.

Common misconceptions?

Sadly, some communities think having albinism is a “bad omen” or something mystical.

Others even believe their body parts have magical powers, leading to dangerous practices. But here’s the truth: people with albinism are just like everyone else, beautiful, capable, and deserving of love and respect.

Challenges they face?

• Discrimination and stigma: Some are abandoned or even harmed due to myths.
• Vision problems: Many need glasses or eye surgery.
• Sun sensitivity: They need sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing.

How to support them?

• Stop the stigma
• Encourage education and job opportunities.
• Protect their rights.