World Albinism Day 2023: World Albinism Day is celebrated on June 25 every year since 2011. The anniversary of the birth of famous pop star Michael Jackson. He has been open about his battle with vitiligo and has taken on various initiatives to make people aware of the chronic skin disorder. Albino Day aims to raise awareness, provide support and advocate for rights, and debunk myths.
What is vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes loss of pigmentation or color in areas of the skin. This happens when melanocytes, the skin cells that produce pigment, are attacked and destroyed, causing the skin to turn milky white. It affects people of all ages, genders and ethnicities, accounting for about 1% of the world’s population.
The different types of vitiligo are:
- generality
- segment
- mucus
- clue
- trichome disease
- Universal
What are the different causes of vitiligo?
According to the National Institutes of Health, “Scientists believe that vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys melanocytes. In addition, researchers continue to study how family history and genes may play a role in the development of vitiligo. Sometimes, an event such as a sunburn, emotional stress, or exposure to chemicals can trigger vitiligo or make it worse.”
Vitiligo seems to be more common in people with a family history of the disorder or those with certain autoimmune diseases, including:
- Addison’s disease
- Pernicious anemia
- Psoriasis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- thyroid disease
- type 1 diabetes
What are the symptoms of vitiligo?
The first sign of vitiligo is usually small white dots or spots, which can later spread throughout the body. Loss of pigmentation, often referred to as loss of color or natural pigmentation, is the main sign of vitiligo. Here are some additional typical symptoms:
- The skin is discolored in patches and is often paler on the extremities.
- In areas where the skin has lost its color, the hair may turn gray.
- The mucous membranes, inside the nose or mouth, may become discolored.
- Uveitis means irritation or swelling of the eye.
- Ear infection.
- Low self-esteem or poor self-image.
How to treat vitiligo?
There is no cure for vitiligo, but there are several treatment options. Treatment for vitiligo is not necessary as the condition does not harm your body and is purely cosmetic. Common treatments for vitiligo include:
- Drugs
- Light therapy
- depigmentation therapy
- Surgery
- advise
- immune mediators
- Skin Camouflage
What are vitiligo prevention measures?
- Protect your skin from the sun.
- Wear breathable clothing.
- Use sunscreen every day inside or outside.
- Avoid cuts, abrasions and burns.
- Never use tanning beds or tanning lamps.
- Support your immune system with a healthy lifestyle.
- Take care of your mental health.
- Show love and support to other vitiligo patients.
- Don’t have a tattoo.
World Albinism Day serves as a global platform to raise awareness, encourage acceptance and support for those living with vitiligo. This day empowers those affected to embrace their uniqueness and advocate for a world that celebrates diversity and inclusion by encouraging education, promoting research, and challenging social stigma. . It acts as a gentle reminder that, regardless of skin color or appearance, everyone deserves respect, acceptance, and equal opportunities.
Good and bad days in June 2023
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education