Albinism

Beyond Race, Ethnicity and Gender

Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically inherited condition which occurs worldwide regardless of ethnicity or gender. It most commonly results in the lack of melanin pigment in the hair, skin and eyes (oculocutaneous albinism), causing vulnerability to sun exposure. This can lead to skin cancer and severe visual impairment. Both parents must carry the gene for it to be passed on to their children, even if they do not themselves have manifestations of the condition.

The prevalence of albinism varies across the world. According to the World Health Organization, estimates vary from 1 in 5,000 to 1 in 15,000 people in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Europe and North America, 1 in 20,000 people have the condition according to the NGO Under the Same Sun. However, data on the prevalence of albinism by country remains scarce.

The term “person with albinism” is preferred to “albino”, which is often used in a derogatory way.

Related links*

• World Albinism Alliance
• National Organisation of Albinism & Hypopigmentation
• Under the Same Sun
• Salif Keita Foundation
• Standing Voice
• International Albinism Awareness Day
• The Albino Foundation

* Note: OHCHR is not responsible for the content of external links.