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A condition which affects not just humans, but also animals and plants, albinism is a result of little or no production of melanin, a natural pigment responsible for determining the colour of human skin, hair, and eyes. Let’s explore…
Understanding the biology
On average, one in 17,000 people is affected by albinism worldwide. This often changes in certain areas like sub-Saharan Africa, where the rates are much higher. Yet, the stigmatisation around this genetic condition still stands tall in our society is unfortunately the sad truth.
An albino turtle hatchling sits among other Arrau turtles (podocnemis expansa) ahead of their release at the Abufari Biological Reserve, in Tapaua, Amazonas state, Brazil.
| Photo Credit:
AP
Far from being a disease, albinism is a congenital disorder caused by mutations in genes involved in melanin synthesis (the complex biochemical process by which specialised cells called melanocytes produce melanin pigments within organelles called melanosomes). So basically, it stems from defects in the cells that produce melanin.
There are mainly two types of albinism — Oculocutaneous Albinism (OCA), which affects skin, hair, and eyes, and Ocular Albinism (OA), which primarily affects only the eyes.
The most common form, oculocutaneous albinism (OCA), arises from mutations in one of seven genes (from OCA1 to OCA7). It often results in no functional tyrosinase and no melanin forms, leading to pale skin, white or very light hair, and translucent irises.
On the other hand, ocular albinism (OA) is rarer and a genetic condition caused by mutations on the X chromosome, primarily affecting the eyes, sparing skin and hair pigmentation to some extent. Genetic inheritance follows an autosomal recessive pattern (a genetic trait or disorder is passed down through families when both parents must carry the mutated gene for a child to be affected) for OCA.
Albinism is not just unique to human beings; it can be seen in a variety of living beings, including animals and even plants. Animals tend to have traits like white or pale fur, feathers, or skin and often distinctive pink or red eyes. This rare genetic mutation often causes poor eyesight, high sun sensitivity, and increased vulnerability to predators due to a lack of camouflage among animals.
In this undated photo released by Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS) Foundation, Alba, an albino orangutan, sits on a branch of a tree while eating watermelon at Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation Center in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia.
| Photo Credit:
AP
On the other hand, albino plants are quite rare and are characterised by a total or partial lack of chlorophyll, causing leaves and stems to appear white, translucent, or pale yellow. Due to a lack of chlorophyll, these plants are often unable to photosynthesise (the biological process by which plants convert light energy (sunlight) into chemical energy (glucose) to fuel their metabolism). This leads to stunted growth, nutrient deficiencies, and often premature death. Some plants are partially albino, allowing them to survive longer than completely albino species, which do not have chlorophyll at all (they are usually fully white). In rare cases, they survive by acting as parasites and relying on the roots of neighbouring green plants for nutrients.
Did you know?
Melanin also acts as a protective shield against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, absorbing sun damage and reducing the risk of skin damage! People with albinism thus have to be extremely careful while being out in the sun!
Medical corner
Albinism is a lifelong condition which does not have a particular cure as such.
The treatments are lifestyle changes like intensive sun protection, such as using high SPF sunscreen and UV-blocking clothing, regular dermatological checkups and eye care to handle the eye-sight problems and photophobia which mostly accompany albinism.
Individuals with albinism are highly susceptible to sunburn. Most people with albinism live normal lifespans and are just as healthy as anyone else.
An albino model.
| Photo Credit:
Unsplash
No confusions!
Do not confuse Albinism, which is present from birth (genetic), with Vitiligo, which develops later, usually in childhood or adulthood!
Albinism reveals the intricate dance of genetics and environment, challenging us to prioritise empathy and science over superstition in society. While kindness might seem quite basic, it is exactly the lack of the same which often leads to isolation and bullying. It is extremely important to debunk superstitions and myths while empowering people through self-love and confidence-building. A simple first step to all of the above? — building your knowledge tank and ensuring people around you understand the science behind our bodies!
Published – May 25, 2026 10:00 am IST
