Strategies For Living With Albinism

In the United States, about one in every twenty thousand individuals is affected by albinism. This inherited genetic condition affects the body by reducing the production of melanin, the substance that gives color to skin, eyes, and hair. The occurrence of albinism varies around the world. For example, in Tanzania, one in 1400 individuals have the condition. The lack of skin pigmentation gives individuals with albinism a much lighter complexion than their siblings. It increases the risk of skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays, such as sunburn and skin cancer. The lack of pigmentation in the eyes leads to several vision problems, affecting both focus and sensitivity.