Is it true that white animals, or mainly white animals are more prone to deafness?

I once found some abandoned kittens who were only 2 weeks old, they were a pure black, a black and white and 2 pure white kittens. The white kittens had blue eyes. The animals welfare league told me they would put them down because they were too young and that the white ones were probably deaf due to the white fur and blue eyes. I took them home with me, and further tests by my vet determined that the white kittens were deaf and the other two (black and black and white) were fine. the vet said that the white fur and blue eyes are more prone to deafness. I raised the kittens and luckily found homes for them all.

It is true that there is a link between a white coat, blue eyes, and deafness. Here are some links about it

There’s a connection between deafness and also a weakened or compromised immune system as well. Animals that lack pigmentation also tend to have other health problems. I have a siamese cat who is mostly white with blue eyes, and has had more health problems than my other 4 cats combined.

thats what they say but i dont think it is true because my rat it white and red eyed and he hears when some 1 says his name and makes noise or when the kids are arround his cage he moves and gets attention and responds right a way so frankly i realy think it isa myth