The link between hair loss and poor health
It’s long been assumed that hair loss in men is simply a sign of aging, but recent research has suggested that it may actually be an indicator of poor health. A 2017 study conducted by the University of Bonn discovered that there is a strong correlation between male-pattern baldness and certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer.
While there is still some debate surrounding the correlation, it’s clear that male-pattern baldness can be a sign of more serious underlying health conditions. This means that men who are experiencing hair loss should consider consulting with their doctor to ensure that they don't have any other underlying medical issues. It’s important to remember that hair loss isn’t necessarily an indication of poor health, but it can be a sign of other health conditions that need to be addressed.
The study's findings
The University of Bonn study found that men who were losing their hair had higher levels of an enzyme called cystatin C, which is a marker of kidney and cardiovascular disease. The researchers also noted that the balding men had significantly higher systolic blood pressure readings than those with a full head of hair.
The study also suggested that balding may be an early warning sign for heart disease, as the balding men in the study had significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for inflammation in the body that can lead to heart disease.
The findings also suggest that men who are experiencing hair loss should get checked out by their doctor to ensure that they do not have any underlying medical issues. This is especially important since high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer can all have serious long-term effects on one's health.
What this means for men's health
The findings of the study published by the University of Bonn in 2017 have shown a link between hair loss and poor health. This means that if a man is experiencing significant hair loss, it could be an indication of an underlying health condition such as high blood pressure, heart disease or cancer.
It’s important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any signs of male pattern baldness, especially if it’s happening rapidly or if you are young. Your doctor can help diagnose any underlying conditions and offer treatments.
If you are already diagnosed with a chronic condition, it’s essential to keep up with your doctor’s recommended treatments and lifestyle modifications to reduce your risk of developing further health issues.
Hair loss doesn’t just indicate medical problems, however; it can also be a sign of stress or even something as simple as a vitamin deficiency. If you are experiencing male pattern baldness, it’s important to address any stressors in your life and make sure you’re getting the necessary vitamins and minerals from your diet.
By taking care of your physical and mental health, you can reduce your risk of developing more serious health problems associated with hair loss.
Tips for preventing hair loss
Hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are preventable. For men who want to reduce their chances of losing their hair due to high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer, there are several steps they can take:
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress levels can all help keep your blood pressure and overall health in check. - See your doctor regularly
Regular check-ups with your physician can help you detect any issues with your blood pressure or other aspects of your health that could contribute to hair loss. - Avoid smoking
Smoking has been linked to a variety of health problems, including high blood pressure. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk for high blood pressure and many other health issues. - Take care of your scalp
Regularly shampooing and conditioning your hair, avoiding tight hairstyles, and wearing hats to protect your scalp from the sun can all help protect your hair from damage. - Consider medication
If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about medications to help you manage it. Some medications are known to reduce the risk of hair loss associated with high blood pressure.
