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A No-Nonsense Guide To Vitiligo. 2nd edition (2024)
A No-Nonsense Guide To Vitiligo. 2nd edition (2024)
A No-Nonsense Guide To Vitiligo. 2nd edition (2024)
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A No-Nonsense Guide To Vitiligo. 2nd edition (2024)

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Embark on a captivating journey from the mysterious beginnings to the expansive horizons of vitiligo management with Yan Valle, as he unveils the second edition of his bestselling “A No-Nonsense Guide To Vitiligo.”

~ ABOUT THE BOOK ~

More than just words on paper, this book is a lively journey alongside Yan Valle, a witty guide who’s navigated the vitiligo waters since childhood to become the captain of the Vitiligo Research Foundation. Yan confidently guides readers through the intricate realm of symptoms, treatments, nutrition, and societal nuances. From root causes to lifestyle considerations, he shares essential insights and precautions for managing vitiligo. Along the way, he helps to decipher medical jargon, empowering you to discuss the proper therapy with your doctor – or knowingly abstain from it.

“A No-Nonsense Guide To Vitiligo" is an easy weekend read, yet deep enough to serve as a comprehensive reference for patients, their families, doctors, cosmetologists, and medical students alike.

~ WHAT'S INSIDE ~

Immerse yourself in the latest advancements in vitiligo research with this meticulously updated second edition. Gain insights into how vitiligo affects vision, hearing, and motherhood. Explore detailed chapters on natural remedies, dietary advice, cosmetic options, and mental well-being strategies.

Within this guide, you'll find:
- Vitiligo: An exploration of its history and cultural perspectives.
- Warning Signs: Techniques for identifying vitiligo before it spreads.
- Genetic Factors: Insights into hereditary risks.
- Hidden Triggers: Strategies for navigating daily life to minimize risks.
- Treatment Options: Tailoring strategies to meet unique needs.
- Holistic Approaches: Evaluating vitamins, diets, and home remedies.
- Stress Management: Tactics for breaking the vicious cycle of stress-induced symptoms.

~ ABOUT THE AUTHOR ~

Yan Valle stands apart as a specialist who knows vitiligo inside and out. His four-decade journey with vitiligo is marked by personal trials and professional triumphs. From facing misdiagnosis and mistreatment to embracing self-acceptance and family joy, his experience is unparalleled.

As the CEO of the New York-based Vitiligo Research Foundation, Yan has studied all aspects of vitiligo diagnosis and treatment. His efforts have significantly shifted the world's perception of vitiligo, from launching the World Vitiligo Day campaign to developing the latest technology breakthrough, an AI-Guide On Vitiligo.

As an invited professor at the Università degli Studi Guglielmo Marconi in Rome, Italy, Yan shares his vast knowledge in a language that resonates with readers around the globe.

~ PRAISE FOR THE BOOK ~

"This is the defining work on this disease. The best I've read." – Health Editor, CNN

"This ambitious book is about how to help ordinary patients understand and manage their skin condition. Everyone interested in vitiligo should absolutely read it." – Prof. Torello Lotti

"Yan Valle is THE person to listen about vitiligo." – Lee Thomas, Fox2 TV

"A smart, accessible book that takes a look at the whole body and its environment to understand the disease, treatment tools and protocols, and well worth the price." – Prof. Robert Schwartz

"This book is rare. It looks at vitiligo with an insider’s knowledge, wisdom and deep caring about patients." – Ogo Maduewesi, VITSAF

"The author integrates in a flawless form social, medical and psychological burden of living with vitiligo. It is truly the most complete and essential guide to living with vitiligo." – Prof. Andy Goren

"I love how easy to understand and comprehensive it is - something definitely lacking in the vitiligo community today." – Erika Page, Living Dappled

LanguageEnglish
PublisherYan Valle
Release dateDec 6, 2017
ISBN9781775165101
A No-Nonsense Guide To Vitiligo. 2nd edition (2024)
Author

Yan Valle

Yan Valle is a writer, researcher and executive. He stands apart as a specialist who knows vitiligo inside and out. His four-decade journey with vitiligo is marked by personal trials and professional triumphs. From facing misdiagnosis and mistreatment to embracing self-acceptance and family joy, his experience is unparalleled.As the CEO of the New York-based Vitiligo Research Foundation, Yan has studied all aspects of vitiligo diagnosis and treatment. His efforts have significantly shifted the world's perception of vitiligo, from launching the World Vitiligo Day campaign to developing the latest technology breakthrough, an AI-Guide On Vitiligo.As an invited professor at the Università degli Studi Guglielmo Marconi in Rome, Italy, Yan shares his vast knowledge in a language that resonates with readers around the globe.

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    A No-Nonsense Guide To Vitiligo. 2nd edition (2024) - Yan Valle

    ~ THE BASICS ~

    PART I

    HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT

    1

    SPOTLIGHT ON VITILIGO

    "S top for a second, doc, did you just say there's no cure? " This was the shattering revelation that faced Lee Thomas, a man who had always dreamt of being on television. But when vitiligo started to erase the brown hue of his skin, he felt that dream was in jeopardy. The realization hit harder as his hands turned stark white, prompting him to confide in his colleagues and superiors about his condition. Expecting the worst, he was taken aback when his managers proposed he share his story on air. In a memorable broadcast in November 2005, the Emmy-winning entertainment guru bared his skin without makeup. The response was overwhelming – the most the channel had ever received, even if a few were unkind. ¹

    Before this watershed moment, vitiligo was largely unheard of beyond the medical community and those affected. That changed dramatically around 3 pm Pacific Time on June 25, 2009. The internet nearly crashed with news of Michael Jackson's demise and speculation about his health. The media, including celebrity bloggers, widely discussed the King of Pop's battle with vitiligo, even though it wasn’t linked to his sudden passing.

    In August 2014, the world of fashion was stirred as Chantelle Brown-Young, a striking Canadian with vitiligo, graced the finals of America's Next Top Model. Chantelle's vitiligo was unique. It had developed from a simple blotch on her stomach into a mesmerizing, marble-like pattern that adorned her entire body, including symmetrical patches on her face that only added to her stunning beauty.

    We met at London's O2 arena following her TEDx presentation. My intention had been to discuss collaborating on raising vitiligo awareness, but observing her under the blinding spotlights, it was immediately evident she could handle that on her own. Chantelle commands attention wherever she goes. Through her army of 1.5 million Instagram followers, a figure that's surged to 10.3 million as of this writing, she could highlight any subject almost instantaneously. Their admiration isn't tethered to her vitiligo; they are entranced by her spirit.

    As she gracefully exited the TEDx stage, the audience responded with thunderous applause. Chantelle, now better known by her stage name, Winnie Harlow, had mesmerized them with her vivacity and quick wit. This high school dropout, who had recently been grappling with suicidal thoughts, now stood before them as a runway queen and a beacon of inspiration.

    Such embracement isn't an isolated incident. If recent media trends are any indication, traits once deemed imperfections are being celebrated. Casting calls now regularly seek individuals with prominent vitiligo. Even giants like Apple have spotlighted a vitiligo model in their iPhone campaigns, underscoring this evolving paradigm.

    Navigating the limelight with a visible difference is no small feat, yet there are many brave souls who have not only done so but have excelled remarkably in their respective fields, vitiligo notwithstanding:

    Amitabh Bachchan, Bollywood's stalwart, has illuminated the silver screen in over 180 films.

    Michaela DePrince, from the tumultuous backdrop of Sierra Leone's civil war where she was dubbed a devil child due to her vitiligo, emerged as a beacon in modern ballet.

    Jon Hamm, the heart of Mad Men as the inimitable Don Draper.

    Feng Xiao Gang, the cinematic maestro from China, boasting over $1 billion in box office receipts.

    Leleti Khumalo has worn many hats, from Sarafina to Hotel Rwanda and Invictus, making her an emblem of South African cinema.

    Graham Norton, the sharp-witted Irish comedian and TV presenter, has been in the BAFTA spotlight five times for his exemplary entertainment prowess.

    Eddie Among Ed Tongol Panlilio, the Filipino priest and provincial governor who's won hearts in and outside the church.

    Édouard Charles Philippe, the once Prime Minister of France and Mayor of Le Havre, has had an illustrious journey in public service.

    For individuals with visible differences aspiring to break into modeling, resilience paired with the right agency can make dreams a reality. The path, although appearing formidable initially, is quite navigable. Begin by exploring agencies specializing in disabled models to assess their openness to fresh talent. As you venture forward, come equipped to highlight your distinct qualities and traits. Persistence is key in securing an agent, so don't be disheartened by initial setbacks. Remember, each agency tailors its criteria based on their clientele and the distinct strengths of their rostered models.

    2

    INVISIBLE PEOPLE

    Have you ever wondered how many people in the world bear the unique hallmark of vitiligo?

    Imagine if we were to gather everyone with vitiligo to observe World Vitiligo Day on June 25 at Mitad Del Mundo—the grand stone monument near Quito, Ecuador, that stands at the equator. ² Offering panoramic views of both hemispheres, it serves as a symbolic place to reflect on this condition, one that transcends race, age, class, and gender.

    With just enough space to breathe, you can fit about ten people on a square meter. Hence, the surrounding amusement park could accommodate about ten million people. But this would only house a mere 10% of our expected guest list. So, we’d begin to align everyone along the equator, hand in hand. We’ll build hypothetical bridges over oceans and tunnels through mountains to maintain an unbroken line. Eventually, our imaginary line of guests would encircle the Earth, returning to Mitad Del Mundo— like a mythological Great Serpent eating its own tale in an eternal cycle of life.

    In this imagined scenario, our vitiligo celebration would comprise around 100 million people, nearly six times the population of Ecuador. If gathered as a nation, it would rank as the fourteenth largest in the world, nestled between the Philippines and Egypt.

    However, this figure is purely speculative. Even epidemiologists, those health detectives who scrutinize disease patterns and sift through mountains of data, struggle to pinpoint the exact number of vitiligo patients.

    A thorough meta-analysis of 103 studies run in 30 countries over the last 40 years, estimated the range of vitiligo prevalence between 0.004% to 9.98%. ³ Kruger and Silverberg further narrowed this range to 0.5% to 2% globally. The most recent study to date indicates that the accurate figures for the U.S. population affected by vitiligo fall within 0.76% and 1.11%, with approximately 40% of individuals with the condition remaining undiagnosed. ⁴

    I'd argue that the actual number of people with vitiligo likely mirrors those who've been officially diagnosed. Consider this: individuals with undiagnosed vitiligo are often more prone to life situations like divorce or separation, potentially lacking the support of a partner to pursue medical intervention. Economic factors also play a role; they may hold lower-wage jobs, lack the financial means for a proper medical assessment, or be without insurance to cover expensive treatments.

    Put simply, many with mild vitiligo symptoms might not approach a medical professional until their condition becomes too prominent to overlook. As healthcare costs in the US soar and societal acceptance towards those with differences improves, the discrepancy between the estimated prevalence and diagnosed cases may continue to grow.

    3

    WORLD VITILIGO DAY

    Could you dare to imagine that a seemingly trivial gathering at a Nigerian shopping mall would spark a movement that would reshape the entire vitiligo landscape in just ten short years? This story unfolds in 2009, an era shadowed by the echoes of an economic downturn, the emergence of Bitcoin, and audiences spellbound by the ethereal realm of 'Avatar'.

    The prologue to World Vitiligo Day was crafted in India. ⁵ A woman of vision, Prof. Savita Malhotra of PGIMER, Chandigarh, penned the opening lines to this emerging narrative. National Vitiligo Day was marked every year on May 19th until 2015. That was when the indefatigable Prof. Davinder Parsad united the Indian vitiligo community with the rest of the world on June 25th.

    Simultaneously, on the other side of the globe, Steve Hargadon’s call for an international vitiligo awareness day seemed to dissipate like a whisper in the wind. Then, like a sudden flame, hope emerged. Ogo Maduewesi, from Lagos, Nigeria, orchestrated the ‘Purple Fun Day’ on June 25, 2011. The day, colored by the memory of Michael Jackson and his fight with vitiligo, sought to shine a spotlight on the truth, dispelling dark myths. Though Ogo's online petition initially gathered a scant 111 signatures that year, it planted the seeds for a global awakening.

    These seeds might have withered, but Fate intervened. An email from Ogo reached my inbox in January 2012, filled with a dream to create a global awareness campaign for vitiligo. Every other vitiligo organization had turned her away, coldly. My name was the last on her list.

    Ogo’s dream faced monumental obstacles. Nigeria's reputation in the early 2010s as the scam capital of the world threatened to overshadow the legitimacy of her cause. Ogo was prepared to adjust her vision, with one steadfast condition: the global day must fall on June 25th, in memory of the King of Pop.

    This decision later proved a double-edged sword. Fans of MJ rallied, gathering over 200,000 signatures in several months. But opposition arose, with some U.S. vitiligo groups voicing concerns, resulting in a short-lived initiative National Vitiligo Awareness Day on October 17th. ⁶

    From those turbulent beginnings, the campaign found its wings, guided by Prof. Torello Lotti and myself, and backed by the Aksenov Family Foundation. The Board’s skepticism gave way to unflinching support, as the potential to shift the global health conversation became

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