Male Pattern Baldness Linked to Prostate Symptoms?
A recent study published in the March issue of Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology finds links between male pattern baldness and prostate symptoms, reports DoctorsLounge.
According to the report, early onset of androgenic alopecia (AGA) may be a sign of male urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. The assumption was based on an observational case-control study conducted on 45 men with early onset of AGA, and 42 control subjects.
"There is a relationship between the presence of AGA and prostate growth-associated urinary symptoms, likely attributable to their pathophysiological similarity," said authors of the report.
The comprehensive study measured prostatic volume using transrectal ultrasound. Urinary flow was measured using urinary flowmetry. The study also included a hormone analysis on all participants, International Prostate Symptom Score and International Index of Erectile Function score.
The results concluded that patients with AGA have significantly higher mean prostate volume, International Prostate Symptom Score, and prostate-specific antigen levels. They also had significantly lower maximum urinary flow compared to the controls.
The
research also found a strong association between the presence of AGA
and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Meanwhile a recent article from
Chicago Tribune finds that AGA is inherited from many genes, which come
from both sides of the family. Therefore, to analyze your chances of
getting baldness you must look at relatives from the families of both
parents.
If you are aware of the risks, you may be able to take precautionary measures to prevent hair loss to an extent, though not fully. There are several treatments that help prevent hair loss. Some of these products contain dihydrotestosterone or DHT that helps your hair regrow fast, strong and healthy.
Over-the-counter medications like minoxidil (Rogaine) are effective in stimulating hair regrowth while also helping you keep the existing hair intact. The product is available in liquid or foam and is applied on the scalp directly.
Another
popular hair loss treatment option is finasteride (Propecia) that can
also slow hair loss and may foster new hair growth. Finasteride is a
prescription-only drug, and is commonly used to treat male pattern
baldness. The treatment is not suggested for women, especially those in
the childbearing age.
News reports also indicate that Finasteride may
cause serious side effects in men. These may include risks for prostate
cancer, sexual dysfunction and the like.
If you are not keen to take these medications, you may opt for surgical hair replacement therapies. Advanced hair restoration procedures like neograft offer the best treatment options for androgenic alopecia because they do not cause any side effects. The hair regrows in a natural way, so it retains its original appearance and health the entire life of the person.
HairFear.com
