26/06/2026

FRIDAY | JUNE 26, 2026

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COMMENT by Dr Punithavathy Shanmuganathan

Vitiligo: Beyond the white patches W ORLD Vitiligo Day, observed every June 25, provides an opportunity to raise awareness about a frequently report being stared at, receiving unwanted comments or questions and experiencing social avoidance or exclusion.

In reality, vitiligo is neither infectious nor contagious. It cannot be transmitted through touch, shared meals, close contact or any other form of interaction. Despite this, the misconception continues to contribute to stigma and social isolation. Myth 3: It does not affect mental well being Although vitiligo does not cause physical pain, its psychological impact can be significant. Because the condition affects visible areas of the body, many individuals experience reduced self confidence, body image concerns and social anxiety. Research has shown that people living with vitiligo may experience higher rates of depression, anxiety and psychological distress than the general population. The psychosocial burden may be particularly pronounced among women and individuals with darker skin tones, where depigmented patches are often more visible due to greater contrast with unaffected skin. These findings underscore that care for vitiligo extends beyond dermatological management. Emotional well-being and psychological support are essential components of holistic care. Myth 4: It cannot be treated Another common misconception is that no interventions are available once vitiligo develops. While there is currently no cure, several treatment options may help slow disease progression and promote repigmentation in some patients. These include topical medications, newer targeted therapies and phototherapy. Treatment outcomes vary between individuals and realistic expectations are important. Equally important is ensuring that individuals are supported in making

condition that affects millions of people worldwide but remains widely misunderstood. While medical advances have improved the management of vitiligo, misconceptions and social stigma remain significant challenges for many individuals living with the condition. Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. As a result, white patches develop on different parts of the body. The condition affects people of all ages, genders and ethnic backgrounds and is estimated to affect approximately 0.5% to 2% of the global population. Although vitiligo primarily affects skin pigmentation, its visible nature can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. Primary care practitioners are often the first point of contact for patients seeking answers about the condition. A significant part of their role involves addressing misperceptions and providing accurate information. Myth 1: It is just a skin problem Vitiligo is frequently perceived as a cosmetic concern. In reality, it is an autoimmune condition that may be associated with other autoimmune diseases. Studies indicate that some individuals with vitiligo also have conditions such as autoimmune thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, type 1 diabetes and systemic lupus erythematosus. This highlights the importance of viewing vitiligo through a broader healthcare lens rather than dismissing it as a purely aesthetic issue. Myth 2: It is contagious This remains one of the most common and harmful misconceptions. Individuals living with vitiligo

“While medical advances have improved the management of vitiligo, misconceptions and social stigma remain significant challenges for many individuals living with the condition.

Although vitiligo primarily affects skin pigmentation, its visible nature can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. – PIC BY FREEPIK

Education most powerful tool for changing this narrative. Accurate information dispels fear, challenges stigma and fosters understanding. More importantly, it reminds society that visible differences should never determine how a person is perceived or treated. As Malaysians, diversity is woven into the fabric of everyday life. That commitment to inclusivity should extend beyond race, religion and culture to encompass visible differences, including vitiligo. Respect, dignity and acceptance should not depend on skin colour, texture or appearance. Greater awareness can help create communities where individuals with vitiligo are met not with curiosity or judgment, but with understanding, empathy and acceptance. Dr Punithavathy Shanmuganathan is a family medicine specialist and a senior lecturer at the School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com remains the materials that interest them. You can also make use of public museums, science centres and zoos in your area, many of which offer free or low-cost programmes for children. If you live in a rural area, this may require an occasional special trip but the experience can be worth the time and effort. Do not overlook the value of music and drama either. Many communities and universities offer concerts, performances and theatre productions that are suitable for children. These are just a few ideas. With a little creativity, and by sharing suggestions with other parents, you can discover many more affordable ways to enrich your children’s lives. This article is contributed by Focus on the Family Malaysia, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and strengthening the family unit. It provides a myriad of programmes and resources, including professional counselling services, to the community. For more information, visit family.org.my. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

informed decisions about treatment based on personal goals, lifestyle and quality of life considerations. Myth 5: It is not affected by the sun Vitiligo-affected skin lacks melanin, making it more vulnerable to sunburn and sun damage. Sun protection is therefore an important part of management. Broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 should be applied when outdoors, particularly during periods of prolonged sun exposure. Protective clothing, such as wide brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts and long trousers, can provide additional protection. Take home message One of the greatest challenges associated with vitiligo is often not the condition itself but the misconceptions that surround it. Myths about contagion, appearance and treatment continue to influence attitudes and behaviours, creating barriers that can be more difficult to navigate than the condition itself.

Under One Roof

Complexities of giving loans to family members Q: Do you think it is wise for family members to lend money to one another – for example, between siblings, parents and children or adult children and their parents? Why or why not?

activities and programmes when we have limited money? I do not want them to miss out on life-enriching opportunities. Focus on the Family Malaysia : Children thrive not because they participate in countless activities or own the latest gadgets but because they have committed, caring parents who spend meaningful time with them and prioritise character over comfort and consumerism. So, if you feel guilty because you cannot provide everything that popular culture suggests children need, set those concerns aside. What matters most is not the amount of money spent on them but the love, guidance and attention they receive at home. There are many ways to provide enriching experiences for children without spending a great deal of money. One of the best places to start is the local library. Books can open doors to new ideas, cultures and places, broadening a child’s horizons and sparking curiosity. If they are old enough, encourage them to get their own library cards and choose books and other

Offering financial assistance with no strings attached is a commendable and positive virtue. However, if you have reasons to believe that this would be impractical or unwise, Ron Blue recommends that you establish a formal borrower-lender arrangement, with clearly defined repayment terms and interest rates. Both parties should clearly understand and agree to the terms from the outset. Vague arrangements such as “pay me back when you can” can lead to misunderstandings and strained relationships. To avoid uncertainty, the terms of the loan should be in writing. Ultimately, lending to or borrowing from family members can be risky because it changes the nature of the relationship and may create tension over time. While such arrangements are not necessarily wrong, they should be entered into with care, clear expectations and careful consideration. Q: I am a stay-at-home mum and my husband works hard to provide for our family but we live on a tight budget. How can I give my children the chance to explore different

Focus on the Family Malaysia : Financial counsellor Ron Blue highlights a key consideration in situations involving family loans: whenever money is lent, the relationship between the parties inevitably changes. The relationship is no longer simply one of brother and sister, parent and child or friends. Once money is lent, the dynamic changes, creating a borrower-lender relationship and adding a new layer of complexity. The same principle applies when cosigning a loan for a family member. By acting as a guarantor for someone else’s debt, you are effectively assuming responsibility for the loan. In practical terms, this is much the same as lending the money yourself. If a family member is genuinely in need, it may be worth considering giving the money outright rather than treating it as a loan.