Androgenetic Alopecia: What Impact Does It Have On the Quality of Life?

Abstract

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common hair disorder resulting from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and nutritional factors. It may be associated with psychological, social, and emotional disturbances in the affected individuals and this may lead to a significant reduction in the quality of life (QoL). Aim: This study determined the impacts of AGA on the QoL among a Nigerian population. Patients, Materials and Methods: This was a hospital‑based cross‑sectional study involving 110 adults with AGA. Adult patients with AGA attending dermatology clinic were consecutively recruited after obtaining an informed consent. The QoL was assessed with Hairdex questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 43.45 ± 11.72 years (age range of 23–82 years) with male‑to‑female ratio of 14.7:1. The AGA duration ranged from 2 to 38 years, with a mean duration of 11.5 ± 4.2 years. Significant impairment in QoL was observed among the subjects in the Hairdex domains of symptoms, functioning, emotion, stigmatization, and self‑confidence. Subjects who have previously been treated were more affected compared to those who were new and were yet to receive any treatment. Conclusion: Significant proportion of individuals with AGA experience enormous impairment in the QoL, indicating the need for psychosocial support while managing such patients.