February 12, 2023February 17, 2023 What body part is affected by albinism? What body part is affected by albinism? Albinism is a genetic condition. Primarily, albinism affects the hair, eyes, skin, and vision. The most common cause of albinism is an interruption in the functioning of the enzyme tyrosinase. An estimated 1 in 70 people carry the genes associated with albinism. Which gender is more affected by albinism? Males are more commonly affected than females. This is because males have only one X chromosome and therefore one copy of the GPR143 gene. Females have two X chromosomes and therefore two copies of the GPR143 gene. What is the life expectancy of albinos? Albinism is not associated with mortality. Lifespan is within normal limits. Because the reduction of melanin in the hair, skin, and eyes should have no systemic effects, the general health of a child and an adult with albinism is normal. Are albinos always male? Ocular albinism occurs almost exclusively in males and is much less common than OCA. Albinism related to rare hereditary syndromes can occur. What race is most likely to be albino? Albinism affects people of all ethnic backgrounds; its frequency worldwide is estimated to be approximately one in 17,000. Prevalence of the different forms of albinism varies considerably by population, and is highest overall in people of sub-Saharan African descent. Do albino people have shorter lifespans? Albinism does not usually affect lifespan. However, HPS can shorten a person’s lifespan due to lung disease or bleeding problems. People with albinism may be limited in their activities because they can’t tolerate the sun. Questions