Our work is entirely funded by private donations – we receive no money from government. Your money will help us continue funding research into vitiligo and supporting people affected by the condition.
FAQ
No, it does not. Despite common misconceptions, people with vitiligo are actually at a lower risk of developing skin cancer, including both nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and malignant melanoma (MM), than the general population. Multiple studies support this, showing a paradoxically lower incidence of skin cancer among those with vitiligo.
For instance, a large study from the United Kingdom involving over 15,000 individuals with vitiligo found they had a 38% decreased risk of developing skin cancer compared to those without the condition.
Despite these findings, many with vitiligo still believe they are at higher risk. This misconception has led to vigilant sun protective behaviors, with vitiligo patients often using high-SPF sunscreen more frequently than the general population, wearing clothing with SPF and avoiding peak sun exposure.
Moreover, concerns about UVB phototherapy treatments increasing skin cancer risk are also unfounded. Research, including long-term studies and meta-analyses, has shown that treatments like NB UVB phototherapy are safe and do not increase the risk of skin cancer in vitiligo patients, regardless of how many sessions they undergo.
Suggested reading: Vitiligo May Reduce Risk of Internal Cancer
References:
- Ferguson J, Eleftheriadou V, Nesnas J (2023) Risk of Melanoma and Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer in People with Vitiligo: United Kingdom Population-Based Cohort Study. J Invest Dermatol 143(11):2204–2210. 10.1016/j.jid.2023.04.013
- Wu YH, Chou CL, Chang HC (2022) Risk of skin cancer after ultraviolet phototherapy in patients with vitiligo: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Exp Dermatol Apr 47(4):692–699. 10.1111/ced.15010
FAQOther Questions
- What's better: laser or phototherapy?
In a recent study researchers assessed effect and safety of different laser and phototherapy treatments, such as excimer laser/light, narrowband UVB, UVA and PUVA. No significa...
- What is the best therapy for localized vitiligo?
Localized vitiligo, where the white patches are limited to one or a few areas of the body, can be managed with a few treatment approaches. The best therapy usually depends on th...
- Vitiligo and hearing loss: any connection?
Vitiligo, primarily known for skin discoloration, can also affect melanocytes in the inner ear, potentially influencing hearing. Hearing loss isn't unique to vitiligo patients a...
Though it is not always easy to treat vitiligo, there is much to be gained by clearly understanding the diagnosis, the future implications, treatment options and their outcomes.
Many people deal with vitiligo while remaining in the public eye, maintaining a positive outlook, and having a successful career.
Copyright (C) Bodolóczki JúliaBy taking a little time to fill in the anonymous questionnaire, you can help researchers better understand and fight vitiligo.