Members to the Order of World Vitiligo Day Canada

#WVD2025 Abstract Competition

We invite original research and innovative ideas, projects still in development, that contribute to expanding the knowledge
base of the vitiligo community.

#WVD2025 Winner

WVD2025: Abstract competition Hessa Asmani, Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Keith Loo, Alejandro J. Vera

Hessa Asmani “A cross-sectional analysis of the quality and readability of online resources for vitiligo”

Hessa’s research focuses on a crucial gap in patient education by examining the accessibility of online information about vitiligo for those seeking answers.

Hessa Asmani and her colleagues conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 120 English-language vitiligo websites—evaluating readability (via Flesch-Kincaid, SMOG, Gunning-Fog, Coleman-Liau and Automated Readability) and quality (using DISCERN and JAMA benchmarks). She found an average reading level of grade 10.4 (vs. the recommended grade 6), low author transparency, and inconsistent coverage of new therapies and psychosocial support—underscoring the need for plain-language, expertly vetted online vitiligo resources.

Finalists:

  • Gabriela Guerra – “Vitiligo as Diasporic Cartography: Art, Identity, and Mental Health in Afro-Brazilian Perspectives”
  • Alejandro Vera – “Identity Forming Experiences with Vitiligo through Age”

Key Themes

Clinic & Research

Novel therapeutic approaches and drug development, advances in phototherapy and topical treatments, combination therapies and personalized medicine

AI & Medtech Innovation

AI-assisted assessment/diagnostic tools and skin imaging, telemedicine and remote patient monitoring, integration of AI with existing clinical workflows.

Cosmetics & Camouflage

Advances in skin camouflage products and techniques, cosmetic tattooing and micropigmentation, safety and efficacy of makeup and cover-up products.

Mental Health and Management

Psychological impact of vitiligo across different age groups and skin tones, counseling and peer support programs, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and resilience training

Review Process

Abstracts will undergo review by an expert panel and accepted abstracts will be presented in a poster or digital presentation. We look forward to your valuable contributions to advancing the care and understanding of vitiligo.

Submission Guidelines

  • Maximum 250 words
  • Format: Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusion
  • Include a complete list of author names, affiliation/organization names, and email address to vitiligo@skinopathy.com


Submissions are now closed.