Vitiligo is more than just a skin condition; it's a journey that many embark upon, seeking answers, treatments, and ultimately, a cure. Dr. John Harris, a dedicated dermatologist and researcher from UMass Chan Medical School, has been at the forefront of this journey, and he's about to share something groundbreaking with all of us.

Whether you or a loved one is affected by vitiligo, this announcement holds promise for a brighter future. So, without further ado, let's hear from Dr. Harris himself! 🌟👇🏼

My name is John Harris, and I am a dermatologist and researcher from UMass Chan Medical School. I have committed my life to learning about vitiligo and improving the lives of those affected by it. Some of our recent work has led to a better understanding of the condition and even new treatments!

I would like to invite you and your family members to participate in an exciting and important NIH-funded research study led by me and my collaborators. Our goal is to understand what causes vitiligo and predict who might be at risk of developing it in the future. Someday, we may learn what we need to develop a cure.

To learn the details about our study and sign up, please visit https://vigor.umassmed.edu/vigor/. Together, we can make a lasting impact!

What makes this vitiligo study special?

• Understanding vitiligo through families: We're working to figure out how both your genes and environment play a role in starting vitiligo.
• It’s large and ambitious: We need to recruit about 1000 participants.
• 5-Year Journey: You’ll join us for a five-year adventure that could directly impact the search for a cure.
• No Need to Leave Home: You don't have to set foot in a clinic! Everything can be done from the comfort of your own home. 

SO, if you have vitiligo and live in the United States or Canada, you and your family members may be eligible for this study. Once you sign up, we will ask that you invite your parents, siblings, children, and cousins, whether they have vitiligo or not. The more of your family members that participate, the more we can learn about vitiligo! WE CANNOT DO THIS WITHOUT YOU.

By the way, you may remember a similar post from us a couple years ago asking if you would be willing to participate in this study. We’re excited that we received the funding from the NIH and we’re starting now! It took a while, but we’re excited that our colleagues and the NIH believe in this work, and we’re committed to get it done. Let’s do this together!

John E. Harris, MD, PhD

Professor and Chair, Department of Dermatology
Founding Director, Vitiligo Clinic and Research Center
Founding Director, Autoimmune Therapeutics Institute