Chennai: Twenty three-year-old Jennifer always gets a second glance wherever she goes, gets unwarranted advice and annoying gasps when discussion over her future married life comes up. She has vitiligo, a condition that leaves white patches on the skin due to loss of melanin. More than the skin condition itself, Jennifer, like many others with the condition, finds it hard to cope with the stigma that society puts her through.
According to doctors, vitiligo affects approximately 13-15 per cent of people in Tamil Nadu, but is not hereditary like generally assumed. “The cause of the condition has not been found and it could happen to anyone, but people still believe that it is hereditary and that it is contagious. However, that is far from the truth, the condition only affects the skin and has absolutely no implication on health,” said G. R. Rathnavel, head of department, cosmetology, Stanley Hospital.
Doctors say victims don’t have to get any treatment since it is not detrimental to health, but it can be cured through medication and steroids. “Patients hesitate to take steroids because they think it has side affects. Besides medication, there is also the option of surgery and laser treatment, but we usually advise them not to go for it as its not health-related, “ the doctor added.
However, 10-15 per cent of patients who come to cosmetology department at Stanley Hospital are those with vitiligo. “We get vitiligo patients even above the age of 65 who claim their grandchildren are not able to find spouses because of the misconception that the condition is hereditary. So, more than anything it is the social stigma that forces patients to go in for surgery, “ the doctor explained.
Surprisingly, there is also a marriage bureau set up just for those with the condition proving how ingrained the stigma is in society. An organisation called Swetha, based out of Pune, provides counselling and also marriage bureau consultation. “If the person finds it difficult to find a partner, then they register with us. We put up their profiles on our website and if someone is interested, then we put them in touch, “ said a source at the organisation.
However, people like Jennifer, on the occasion of World Vitiligo Day (Saturday), demand to be treated as equals. They do not want to get any kind of treatment but just want to be able to live their lives normally with no nosey questions or comments on what they should do or how they should worry about something that does not have no adverse effects on their health.
