World Vitiligo Day (WVD) is observed annually on June 25 to raise global awareness about vitiligo, an autoimmune disorder causing skin depigmentation. The condition affects 0.5%–1% of the global population (~70–100 million people) across all races, genders, and age groups, with 20–35% of cases occurring in children.
- Vitiligo is a condition where the immune system destroys melanocytes, skin cells producing melanin, causing loss of skin pigment and lighter patches.
- WVD is also known as Vitiligo Awareness Day or Vitiligo Purple Fun Day, as purple is the official colour representing vitiligo awareness and solidarity with those affected by the condition.
Theme:
i.The theme for the WVD 2025 is “Innovation for Every Skin, Powered by AI”
ii.The 2025 theme focuses on how Artificial Intelligence (AI), Medical Technology (MedTech), and research are transforming the diagnosis, treatment, and management of vitiligo.
Background:
i.The idea of WVD was initiated by Steve Haragadon, Founder of Vitiligo Friends Network, and formalized by Ogo Maduewesi, Founder and Executive Director of Vitiligo Support and Awareness Foundation (VITSAF), Nigeria in 2011.
ii.The first World Vitiligo Day was observed on 25th June 2011, in memory of Michael Jackson, who had vitiligo and passed away on 25th June 2009.
iii.The inaugural event took place in Lagos, Nigeria, featuring participation from dermatologists, patients, and artists.
About Vitiligo:
i.Vitiligo is a skin disorder that causes white patches to appear on the skin due to the destruction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (skin pigment).
ii.The term ‘vitiligo’ is derived from the Latin word ‘vitium’, meaning defect or blemish.
iii.It can significantly affect a person’s daily life, including their ability to work, study, or engage in social interactions, leading to emotional and psychological challenges.
2025 Events:
i.For the first time, Canada hosted the global observance in Toronto(Canada), marking a historic moment in the movement’s international expansion. The event was organized by Toronto based – Skinopathy, in partnership with the Vitiligo Research Foundation (VRF).
ii.As part of WVD 2025, a special event was held in Tampa, Florida, United States of America(USA), featuring: Camp Victory for children with vitiligo from 24th to 26th June 2025.
- A global conference dedicated to vitiligo awareness, titled World Vitiligo Day–USA 2025, is scheduled to be held in Tampa from June 27 to 29, 2025.
About Vitiligo Research Foundation (VRF):
Headquarters – New York, United States of America(USA)
Established – 2010
