First psycho-dermatology unit to support vitiligo patients

Doctors say though non-contagious, individuals afflicted with this condition suffer discrimination

KARACHI:

Sindh Institute of Skin Diseases Director Dr Ruby Qureshi on Saturday highlighted that vitiligo affects approximately 1% of the world's population. However, despite its global prevalence, gathering accurate data on this condition within the borders of Pakistan has proven to be a formidable challenge.

To address the psychological burden of vitiligo patients, the institute has taken a groundbreaking step by establishing the country's first psycho-dermatology unit.

Dr Qureshi announced these developments during an impactful awareness session conducted at the Sindh Institute of Skin Diseases, which is commonly known as Chamra Hospital, situated near the Regal Chowk in the bustling Saddar area of Karachi.

During the enlightening session held on World Vitiligo Day, Dr Qureshi emphatically reiterated that vitiligo is unequivocally non-contagious and poses no risk of transmission to others. She fervently appealed to end the discriminatory treatment suffered by individuals afflicted with this condition.

Although the treatability of vitiligo, societal prejudices and deeply entrenched stereotypes compel those affected to conceal their condition, exacerbating their already burdensome emotional distress. Dr Qureshi's plea served as a resounding call to action, imploring society to foster an environment of acceptance and compassion for those grappling with vitiligo.

Furthermore, Dr Farhan Mir Sheikh, the in-charge of the Vitiligo Clinic, used the occasion to emphasise the urgent need for heightened awareness regarding various skin diseases, including vitiligo. Having witnessed the pain and suffering endured by patients, Dr Sheikh empathetically acknowledged the stories that unfolded before him. These stories revealed the devastating impact vitiligo can have on individuals' lives. Regrettably, he lamented the disintegration of marriages and the heartbreaking dissolution of relationships that directly result from skin diseases.

He solemnly shared the disheartening reality that even educated families often reject potential suitors who happen to bear the burden of vitiligo. This pervasive discrimination permeates all facets of life, impeding educational opportunities and hindering employment prospects. Dr Sheikh's impassioned speech underscored the urgent need for transformative change.

It culminated in a heartfelt plea to the Provincial Minister of Education, Sardar Shah, urging the establishment of an advisory committee to alleviate the mental pressures experienced by children affected by vitiligo. Moreover, he called upon human rights activists to lend their powerful voices in championing the rights of these individuals, facilitating a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Delving deeper into the medical aspects of vitiligo, experts elucidated its genetic origins, explaining that it manifests as the alteration of skin colour due to the appearance of white patches on various body parts, such as the face and hands.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, June 25^th, 2023.