WHEREAS, vitiligo is an autoimmune skin disease causing loss of pigment from areas of the skin, resulting in irregular white spots or patches; and
WHEREAS, vitiligo affects more than two million Americans and approximately 0.5 to 2 percent of people worldwide; and
WHEREAS, symptoms can appear at any age and affect people of all genders, races, and ethnicities; and
WHEREAS, while the condition is not typically associated with physical pain, the psychological and social effects can be significant for many affected individuals, especially children and those with darker skin; and
WHEREAS, approximately 15 to 25 percent of people with Vitiligo are also affected by at least one other autoimmune disorder; and
WHEREAS, researchers and medical professionals are working to better understand and treat vitiligo; although there is currently no known cure, treatments are available that can help with repigmentation, especially if begun early and used consistently; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages people to increase awareness, understanding, and support for individuals with vitiligo in communities throughout the state;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim June, 2023, as “VITILIGO AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.