61480 The interplay of pigmentation disorders and phototype in shaping perceived stigmatization: findings from the I'SPOT survey

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

9-1-2025

Publication Title

J Am Acad Dermatol

Abstract

Introduction and objectives: Skin diseases are a significant challenge to patients' well-being, impacting not only their physical health but also their psychological and social experiences. The I’SPOT study investigated the prevalence and impact on QOL and stigmatization of 6 main pigmentary disorders (PD). Moreover, the interplay between PD, phototype, and perceived stigmatization, was studied aiming to shed light on the challenges faced by individuals with darker skin tones. Methods: A survey was conducted in 48000 subjects from 34 countries worldwide. Demographic, PD information and phototype (PT) information was collected and the stigmatization PUSH-D was used. PT were classified into lighter (I to III) and darker (IV to VI) groups. Results: 9.5% reported at least one PD. The prevalence was similar between lighter (49.6%) and darker PT (49.1%). Subjects with darker PT reported significantly higher levels of perceived stigmatization compared to those with lighter PT. They were 1.16 times more likely to report "avoiding appearing in family photos" (p<0.001), 1.24 times more likely to "avoid some people" (p<0.001), 1.21 times more likely to report the feeling "less loved by family and friends" (p <0.001) and 1.27 times more likely to feel "pushed away by their partner" (p <0.001) compared to individuals with lighter PT. This underlines the increased emotional and social impact of perceived stigmatization on individuals with darker PT. Conclusions: Subjects with darker PT and PD encounter more frequently stigma. This study highlights the high need for culturally sensitive and inclusive approaches to dermatological care.

Volume

93

First Page

AB321

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