Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Albinism

Albinism is caused by a mutation in one of several genes that produce or distribute melanin. Due to this mutation or defect, it will result in the absence of melanin production or decreased production of melanin. The defective gene is passed down from both parents to the child and causes albinism. In the United States, the disorder is found in about 1 in 20,000 people. The number might seem a bit high, but when compared to the rest of the world where the chances are 1 in 3,000, it is comparatively low.