Albinism can be defined as a rare group of genetic disorders that causes the skin, hair, or eyes to have little or no color. It also occurs when a person produces little or no melanin in their skin and is usually associated with vision problems.
The prevalence rate of albinism in Nigeria is ranked amongst the highest in the world, with an estimated figure of over two million albinos living in the country.
Statistics also show that over 600,000 Nigerians living with the condition suffer discrimination from their families, schoolmates, and peers.
International Albinism Awareness Day is celebrated annually on June 13 to celebrate the human rights of people with albinism worldwide. The theme of this year is called ‘Made to Shine.’
Here are some things to know about it.
ALSO READ: These 6 Steps Are Important In Helping Your Child Cope With Albinism
Causes
Albinism is caused by a mutation in one of these genes. The mutation may result in no melanin at all or a significantly reduced amount of melanin.
The defect may result in the absence of melanin production or a reduced amount of melanin production. The defective gene is passed down from both parents to the child and leads to albinism.
Different types of albinism can occur, based mainly on which gene mutation caused the disorder.
Symptoms
People with albinism will have the following symptoms:
- an absence of color in the hair, skin, or eyes
- lighter than normal coloring of the hair, skin, or eyes
- patches of skin that have an absence of color
Treatment
- sunglasses to protect the eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays
- protective clothing and sunscreen to protect the skin from UV rays
- prescription eyeglasses to correct vision problems
- surgery on the muscles of the eyes to correct abnormal eye movements