VITILIGO AWARENESS MONTH
2024
BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
A PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, vitiligo is an autoimmune skin disease that causes 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 ranges from 0.5 percent to 2 percent of the population worldwide and higher in certain regions; it can appear at any age, and can affect all people regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity; and
WHEREAS, while the condition is not typically associated with physical pain, the psychological and social effects can be significant for many affected individuals, particularly 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 re-pigmentation, especially if begun early and used consistently; and
WHEREAS, organizations like the North Carolina Vitiligo Support Community Group work to empower individuals with vitiligo as well as educate, advocate, and spread awareness; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages residents 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, 2024, as “VITILIGO AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.
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Roy Cooper
Governor
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this third day of June in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-four and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-eighth.