33404 Perceptions and Stigmatization of Vitiligo Differ By Demographics

Author Type(s)

Faculty, Resident/Fellow

Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2022

DOI

10.1016/j.jaad.2022.06.793

Journal Title

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Department

Dermatology

Abstract

Background: While the psychological impact of vitiligo is well-studied, largely missing from the literature is information detailing the public’s perceptions and understanding of vitiligo as a medical diagnosis. Through this survey, we hope to gauge the public’s knowledge of vitiligo and better understand why social stigmatization may exist. Methods: We surveyed 256 individuals on their perceptions and knowledge of vitiligo. We analyzed responses overall, by age (18-39 years of age vs 40 and older), gender, race, and personal connection to vitiligo. Results: Public perceptions of vitiligo differed by race, gender, age and personal connection with vitiligo. Asian respondents were more likely to believe that vitiligo is contagious (P <.001), influenced by one’s diet (P <.001), and that patients with vitiligo have control over their disease (P <.001) compared with white respondents. Male respondents were unsure whether that one’s diet influences vitiligo, compared with female respondents (P <.001). Individuals with personal connection to vitiligo were more aware of exacerbating factors compared with respondents with no connection (P <.01). Younger respondents are less cognizant of the psychological manifestations of vitiligo compared with older age groups (P <.05). Importantly, while not statically significant, participants of all races and ethnicities answered that they would benefit from additional education about vitiligo. Conclusion: Better public education may help combat social stigma affecting patients with vitiligo. Respondents of all races, genders, and age answered they would benefit from additional education. Addressing these pitfalls in public knowledge may help ease the psychological burden and social stigmatization of patients with vitiligo.

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