An autoimmune disease that is still poorly understood
Vitiligo is not an infection and is absolutely not contagious. It is an autoimmune disease: the immune system, normally responsible for defending the body, mistakenly attacks melanocytes.
This dysfunction prevents the normal production of pigments, which explains the appearance of depigmented areas. The precise causes are not fully known, but several factors, including genetic and environmental ones, may be involved.
Today, it is estimated that approximately 2% of the world's population is affected, to varying degrees. This makes it a relatively common disease, even though it often remains poorly understood.
An impressive but harmless disease
Contrary to what its appearance may suggest, vitiligo is neither dangerous nor painful. It does not cause serious complications for the body and does not reduce life expectancy.
Its impact is primarily visual, which can sometimes affect self-confidence or how others perceive it. This is precisely why some people prefer to speak openly about it today, in order to raise awareness of this reality.
In Michael Jackson's case, this disease would have gradually altered the appearance of his skin over the years, wrongly fueling many speculations.
