Albinism is a congenital disorder caused by the complete absence of melanin. This pigment is responsible for the color of our skin, hair and eyes. People with albinism remain a mystery to science, and several centuries earlier, only the Inquisition was engaged in the study of albinos. A considerable share of a wary attitude towards albinos is still preserved in society - an echo of the medieval attitude towards dissimilar people. However, albinism does not at all make a person a devil worshiper.
Vision
Albinos often have vision problems. Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), photophobia, hyperopia and myopia - you just have to live with all this.
Habitat
On average, one albino appears in 20,000 people. However, in Africa, the number of albinos is much higher. One child with this disease is born here in three thousand people.
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Sunstroke
Albinos synthesize vitamin D five times faster than normal people. Since vitamin D is formed when ultraviolet-B light penetrates the skin, the absence of pigmentation means an almost instant burn, even in the lightest sun.
Types of albinism
There are several types of albinism. The most common and most serious deviation is considered complete, affecting both the skin and the eyes. Some babies may be born with white hair and skin that darkens slightly as they get older.
Persecution
In the Middle Ages, albinos were true white crows. They were considered accomplices of the devil and burned at the stake. In addition, body parts of albinos were used in barbarian witchcraft rituals.
Not people
This disease can happen to every inhabitant of the Earth, not just humans. Vertebrates are also prone to albinism.
Life span
People with albinism can live long, healthy lives just like everyone else. The biggest danger comes from skin cancer, which develops more easily from unprotected sun exposure.