Yes, babies can be born with albinism.
Albinism is a genetic condition that affects the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Babies born with albinism have little to no pigment in their bodies.
How Albinism is Inherited
- Albinism is usually passed down through genes from parents to their children.
- Most types of albinism, specifically Oculocutaneous Albinism (OCA), require both parents to carry the albinism gene for their child to inherit the condition.
- Parents may appear normal, but they can still be carriers of the gene.
- If both parents are carriers, there is a 25% chance with each pregnancy that the child will be born with albinism.
Characteristics of Babies Born with Albinism
Babies born with albinism may exhibit several characteristics, including:
- Very pale skin
- White or light-colored hair
- Light blue or pink eyes
- Sensitivity to sunlight
Implications and Considerations
It's important to note that individuals with albinism can lead full and healthy lives. However, they often need to take precautions to protect their skin and eyes from the sun. Regular eye exams are also important to monitor for any vision problems.
