WHAT IS VITILIGO

Vitiligo (also known as Leukoderma) is a skin disorder that causes the skin to lose its color or pigment, which can make the skin appear lighter or whiter than natural. This disorder can affect the skin anywhere on the body. 1,2

0.5%-1%

The global prevalence of vitiligo is estimated to be 0.5%-1%. Normally, the color of hair and skin is determined by melanin (skin pigment), vitiligo occurs when cells that produce melanin die or stop functioning.

specifically targets

Scientists consider vitiligo as an acquired, immune-mediated skin disorder that specifically targets pigment-producing melanocytes, leading to depigmentation that appears as white patches on the skin.1-3 

patients

This condition is neither life-threatening nor contagious. However, vitiligo can lead to discomfort for patients, as the uneven skin color may affect their self-esteem.2,3

References:

1. Vitiligo Overview NIAMS [Internet]. NIH. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/vitiligo Accessed January 2025.

2. Vitiligo [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12419-vitiligo Accessed January 2025.

3. Haulrig MB, et al. The global epidemiology of vitiligo: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the incidence and prevalence. JEADV Clin Pract. 2024;3(5):1410-1419.