Medical Problems
In the United States, people with albinism live normal life spans and have the same types of general medical problems as the rest of the population. The lives of people with Hernansky-Pudlak syndrome can be shortened by lung disease or other problems. In tropical countries, those who do not use skin protection may develop life-threatening skin cancers. If they use appropriate skin protection, such as sunscreen lotions rated 20 or higher, and opaque clothing, people with albinism can enjoy outdoor activities even in summer.

People with albinism are at risk of isolation, because the condition is often misunderstood. Social stigmatization can occur, especially within communities of color, where the race or paternity of a person with albinism may be questioned. Families and schools must make an effort not to exclude children with albinism from group activities.

Contact with others with albinism or who have albinism in their families is most helpful. NOAH can provide the names of contacts in many regions of the country.