Kannada Film Tackling the Stigma of Vitiligo

• A new Kannada film, directed by Mahesh Gowda, aims to challenge the stigma associated with vitiligo, a condition often misunderstood and stereotyped in India.
• Gowda, who himself has vitiligo, not only directs but also plays the lead role in the movie, continuing his trend of making films that highlight social issues.

What is Vitiligo?

• Definition: Vitiligo is a long-term skin disorder that causes the loss of pigmentation in patches, resulting in white spots on the skin.
• Cause: It occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin color, malfunction or are destroyed.
• Triggers: Possible causes include autoimmune responses, genetics, oxidative stress, or exposure to chemicals.
• Symptoms: Depigmented patches can develop anywhere on the body, including the skin, hair, and mouth lining.
• Prevalence: Vitiligo affects 0.5-2% of the global population, impacting people of all ethnicities, though it is more noticeable in individuals with darker skin.

Treatment Options

• While there is no permanent cure, treatments aim to manage symptoms and restore pigmentation.
• Options include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions like skin grafting or depigmentation therapy.
• Despite advancements, full and permanent repigmentation remains a challenge.

Social and Psychological Impact

• Emotional toll: Vitiligo often leads to deep emotional and psychological effects due to the visible nature of the condition. Many people face discrimination, social isolation, and mental health issues.
• Stigmatisation: The altered appearance of those with vitiligo can lead to societal rejection and misunderstandings, affecting self-esteem, relationships, and employment opportunities.
• Cultural misconceptions: In some cultures, vitiligo is falsely believed to be contagious, or is linked to poor hygiene, illness, or even divine punishment, further fueling social stigma.

Success Stories

• Notable figures: Despite these challenges, individuals like former Bengaluru Mayor B. Ramachandrappa have been successful in public life, showing that vitiligo does not define one’s potential.
• Personal narratives: Upendra Prabhu, a stock market broker from Mangaluru, shares how he has lived a fulfilling life despite the condition, though he notes that avoiding face-to-face interactions has helped mitigate some social challenges.

Reducing Stigma

• Awareness efforts: Socio-medical workers have worked to educate the public, emphasizing that vitiligo is non-contagious and poses no threat to others.
• Changing perceptions: As public understanding grows and medical science dispels myths, there is hope for reducing the stigma. Increased awareness and shared experiences can empower patients and promote social acceptance.

Conclusion

• Vitiligo continues to pose significant challenges for those affected, both physically and emotionally. However, with growing awareness, medical advancements, and efforts to dispel myths, there is hope for a future where vitiligo is no longer seen through the lens of prejudice.