Dermatologists have dismissed persistent myths surrounding vitiligo, including beliefs that it is caused by witchcraft or cannot be treated, warning that such misinformation continues to delay diagnosis and access to care.
Speaking on World Vitiligo Day, specialists urged the public to seek early medical attention, noting that timely diagnosis and treatment significantly improve management outcomes and help reduce progression of the condition, which affects skin pigmentation and often exposes patients to stigma and discrimination.
Dermatologists have dismissed widespread misconceptions that vitiligo is untreatable or linked to witchcraft, cautioning that such beliefs continue to discourage many people from seeking timely medical care.
They said misinformation and stigma remain major barriers to diagnosis and treatment, despite advances in medical care that can help manage the condition effectively.
One of the patients highlighted is Alex Mucunguzi, who first noticed small white patches beneath one of his eyes in 2022.
Although the patches gradually spread, he waited nearly two years before seeking medical attention and receiving a proper diagnosis.
Mucunguzi said the diagnosis was initially difficult to accept, especially because he had never heard of vitiligo before.
“I was overwhelmed when I was diagnosed because I did not know what vitiligo was. The changes in my appearance attracted ridicule from some people, and at one point the condition even affected my vision,” he said.
He added that he eventually regained hope after doctors reassured him that the condition could be managed through treatment.
According to Dr Amelia Nabatanzi, a dermatologist at Nakasero Hospital, vitiligo is an autoimmune skin condition that affects the pigmentation of the skin and can occur in people of all ages. She emphasized that the condition is neither caused by witchcraft nor contagious.
“Vitiligo is not caused by witchcraft, and it is not contagious. Early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve the chances of managing the condition successfully,” Dr Nabatanzi said.
She noted that people living with vitiligo remain healthy and are able to carry out normal daily activities, but often face stigma and discrimination because of visible changes in their skin.
Dr Nabatanzi further warned that untreated vitiligo may continue spreading to other parts of the body, making management more difficult and discouraging some patients from seeking help due to embarrassment and fear of social judgment.
Health experts are now calling for increased public awareness to combat misinformation, reduce stigma, and encourage individuals with symptoms of vitiligo to seek medical attention early.
