HAIR TRANSPLANT FORUM

I heard that men who loose their hair are less likely to get prostate cancer. Is that true?

There is some preliminary evidence that this is true. A recent study from the University of Washington School of Medicine indicates that men who experience hair loss before the age of 30 appear to have a 29-45% reduced risk of developing prostate cancer in their lifetime.

Male pattern baldness is commonly attributed to excess DHT, which is produced by the male hormone testosterone. Men with high levels of testosterone are more likely to lose their hair, particularly if their is a family history of hair loss. Men who have prostate cancer are typically given drugs intended to reduce testosterone levels as testosterone is thought to accelerate the growth of tumors once they have developed. However, this study suggests that high levels of testosterone from a young age might actually protect against developing prostate cancer.

It's too early to say for sure whether there is a solid link between baldness and a reduced risk of prostate cancer but this study is certainly compelling and it's refreshing to hear some positive news about hair loss for once.

Thank Emilie