Experts are calling for greater awareness and understanding of vitiligo, a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes patches of skin to lose pigment. The Vitiligo Foundation of India emphasised this call to action at a major conference.

The experts highlighted the widespread myths surrounding vitiligo, such as the belief that the disease is untreatable. Dr. Madhulika Mhatre, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin Saga Centre for Dermatology in Mumbai, countered this misconception, stating, “Many treatment options are available for vitiligo, including phototherapy, light therapy, and surgeries that can restore skin colour to affected areas.”

Dr. Kanika Sahni, Vice President of the Vitiligo Foundation of India, emphasised the need for increased awareness. She noted that around 70 new vitiligo patients visit their clinic monthly, with the total number reaching about 280 when including follow-up cases. “We have dedicated a one-day clinic for vitiligo and are conducting 6–8 research projects on this disease, covering light therapy, counselling, medical treatment, and surgical treatment,” said Dr. Sahni, who is also an Additional Professor in the Department of Dermatology at Delhi-AIIMS.

Dr. Sahni shared findings from a recent study indicating that providing concealer and makeup products to manage white spots can significantly improve the quality of life for vitiligo patients and help combat the stigma associated with the condition.

Vitiligo manifests as white spots on the skin due to a problem with skin pigmentation. One major myth is that vitiligo spreads through touch, but experts have clarified that it is not an infectious disease. Another common myth is that certain foods, like fish and sour foods, cause vitiligo. However, the disease has no connection to eating habits.

Experts hope that dispelling these myths and promoting accurate information will improve the lives of those affected by vitiligo and encourage a more supportive and understanding environment.