Florida Senate - 2021 (NP) SR By Senator Cruz 18-04352-21 20212058__ CODING: Words stricken are deletions; words underlined are additions. Senate Resolution A resolution recognizing June 25, 2021, as “World Vitiligo Day” in Florida. 3

WHEREAS, vitiligo is a long-term, chronic disease that results in the loss of pigment in patches of the skin, hair, 6 eyes, and inside of the mouth, and

WHEREAS, the condition can result in discomfort, itching, 8 and pain, with no known cure, and

WHEREAS, the Nemours Center for Children’s Health Media’s KidsHealth estimates that to million persons in the United States are living with vitiligo, of which more than half are 12 children and adolescents, and

WHEREAS, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, 14 a diagnosis of vitiligo can be life altering, causing many patients to struggle with low self-esteem, anger, and depression due to the social stigma surrounding the condition, and

WHEREAS, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, 18 approximately half of the patients diagnosed with vitiligo are diagnosed before the age of 21 years, and

WHEREAS, a study by the Society for Pediatric Dermatology found that approximately half of all children and adolescents diagnosed with vitiligo have experienced a decrease in their quality of life, and some patients have experienced problems with schoolwork, increased bullying and teasing, trouble with developing friendships, and issues with self-confidence, and

WHEREAS, there are medical facilities, clinics, and dermatologists throughout Florida who study, treat, and lend aid to those with vitiligo, and Florida Senate - 2021 (NP) SR 2058 18-04352-21 20212058__ CODING: Words stricken are deletions; words underlined are additions.

WHEREAS, across this state, patients diagnosed with vitiligo are participating in support groups, one of which has amassed more than members, ranging in age from to 78 32 years, and

WHEREAS, although the disease itself is not life-34 threatening, the psychological impact is significant and can be devastating,

NOW, THEREFORE, 36

Be It Resolved by the Senate of the State of Florida: 38 That June 25, 2021, is recognized as “World Vitiligo Day” 40 in Florida. 41