
There are only a few studies into the prevalence of XP and very few recent ones. Up to one in 370 Indians suffer from XP. But there is underreporting because of a lack of awareness. There is also a social stigma attached to skin problems in India, and being a sunny tropical country, the high degree of sun exposure makes the visual symptoms of XP more pervasive and aggravates the degradation of ocular problems that lead to blindness. Many still believe the superstitions that skin conditions are a curse and so don’t seek medical help.