Albinism explained

Do you want to know more about living with albinism? Then you've come to the right place!

What is albinism?

Albinism is a genetic condition that some people are born with. People who are born with albinism make little or no melanin. Melanin is what gives pigment and colour to people’s skin, hair and eyes. It can effect people in different ways.

Photo of a pre-teen grinnning at the camera. He has albinism, and is wearing specs, with his hands clasped in front of him.

1 in 4000

people in South Africa are born with albinism

2 main types of albinism

1. Ocular albinism: only the person’s eyes are affected

2. Oculocutaneous albinism: affects the person’s skin, hair and eyes.