Finding the exact number of people with albinism in the country is a challenge for the Fiji Albinism Project.

Project representative, Sainimili Tawake says although the recorded number is over 260 – there are still many out there.

Tawake says incorrect beliefs and myths, heavily influenced by superstition put the lives of persons with albinism at risk and many don’t show themselves publicly.

“We are trying to dismantle the cultural myths and we are trying to encourage persons with albinism to come out, to be counted so that in doing so the government will, be able to provide the much better and needed services that we need.”

The worldwide average rate for people with albinism is 1 in 17,000 and in Fiji it’s 1 in 700.

Tawake was speaking at the International Albinism Awareness Day at Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva today.

Albinism is a genetic condition resulting in little or no pigmentation in the skin, hair and eyes.