Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically inherited condition that occurs worldwide in all races and affects individuals of both genders equally. It is caused by a lack of or deficiency in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. People with albinism have a higher risk of developing certain health problems, including vision impairment, hearing loss, and skin cancer. In this article, we will discuss what albinism can lead to and how it can be managed.
Vision Impairment
People with albinism have reduced vision acuity, which can be further impaired by glare sensitivity. This results in the need for protective eyewear, such as sunglasses, to reduce the glare and improve vision. Additionally, individuals with albinism are at higher risk for developing certain eye conditions, such as strabismus (crossed eyes) and nystagmus (involuntary eye movements).
Hearing Loss
Albinism can also lead to hearing loss due to the lack of pigment in the inner ear. This can cause individuals to have difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, such as birds chirping or a telephone ringing.
Skin Cancer
People with albinism are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer due to their lack of pigment in the skin. It is important for individuals with albinism to protect their skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.
Managing Albinism
Although there is no cure for albinism, there are ways to manage its symptoms. For example, individuals with albinism should wear protective eyewear and sunscreen to reduce the risk of vision impairment and skin cancer. Additionally, they should have regular eye exams to monitor for any changes in vision and hearing tests to monitor hearing.
In conclusion, albinism can lead to vision impairment, hearing loss, and skin cancer. While there is no cure, individuals with albinism can manage its symptoms by taking preventive measures, such as wearing protective eyewear and sunscreen, and having regular eye and hearing tests.