Vitiligo is a rare skin disorder that leads the skin to experience depigmentation. As a result, the skin loses its color and has irregular patches. Though you may have seen some people suffering from Vitiligo around you, it is considered a rare disease because only 0.5% to 1% of the world’s total population is affected by it. Please note that Vitiligo is not a life-threatening problem. However, various social stigmas are attached to it, even in today’s society, where there are so many messages on beauty and self-acceptance. Since it directly impacts the sufferer’s self-esteem, let’s bust a few myths about Vitiligo and get down to facts.
Does it have anything to do with your parents’ ethnicity?
Myth- You are most likely to suffer from Vitiligo if you have parents of mixed races.
Fact- The truth remains that Vitiligo is in no way related to your ethnicity. Some people suffer from skin pigmentation right from the time of their birth. Please note that Vitiligo is a progressive skin disorder that usually surfaces in younger generations, but older citizens may also show signs.
Does Vitiligo depend on your skin color?
Myth- Vitiligo only affects those who have dark skin.
Fact- No, Vitiligo does not depend on your skin color. The truth is that it is more visible on dark-skinned people. However, there is no scientific finding that suggests it does not affect fair-skinned individuals. It does not depend on your skin color. There is a strong possibility that this belief has been doing the rounds because of people’s mindset and racial discrimination.
Can Vitiligo cause cancer?
Myth- Vitiligo is related to skin problems such as cancer and leprosy.
Fact- No, Vitiligo is an entirely independent skin disorder. It is essentially an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the skin color cells. There is a high possibility that it runs in the family. But the exact cause remains unknown. Please do not link it to cancer as that can cause major panic.
Which part of your body is most affected by Vitiligo?
Myth- Vitiligo most affects the parts of the body that people can see, such as the face and hands.
Fact- Yes, Vitiligo is indeed aggravated when exposed to the sun. Thus, parts of the body, such as your face, arms, and legs, are most susceptible. However, it also affects other regions such as the armpits, groins, eyes, navel, genitals, and rectal areas. Sometimes, patches may also occur inside the mouth, nose, retina, or the scalp.
Do Vitiligo sufferers have other complications?
Myth- People who have Vitiligo have mental and physical disabilities.
Fact- No, Vitiligo does not affect the nervous system in any way. They have entirely “normal” lifestyles like everyone else. However, Vitiligo may be more common in those with other autoimmune problems such as hyperthyroidism, alopecia, and anemia. People with Vitiligo should take regular doctor appointments to monitor for these and other potential conditions.
Is Vitiligo contagious?
Myth- You must look away when you see someone with Vitiligo, or you will develop the same.
Fact- No, Vitiligo is not contagious. It does not spread by touching or seeing. You must participate in World Vitiligo Day on 25th June to break the stigma associated with the autoimmune disorder.
These are some of the top myths and facts that you must know about Vitiligo. Ensure to spread awareness and help people understand the implications.