A research team from Scotland has recently identified almost 300 genetic markers linked to baldness. The largest study of its kind to date, this new research provides hope for finding more effective treatments for male pattern baldness.
While the team admits the results won’t lead to an overnight cure, they do see it as one step further into the understanding and treatment of this century old condition. It also means a simple DNA test could be all that’s required to predict whether a man will go bald.
Paving the way for better genetic understanding
The study carried out by researchers at the University of Edinburgh, involved looking at data from a staggering 52,874 men. The results allowed the team to generate a rough formula to estimate the chance of a person going bald.
So, why is the discovery of these 287 different genetic markers significant? Well, it allows experts to have a greater understanding of the risk factors which contribute towards male pattern baldness. This in turn, helps make it possible to research into potential treatments.
While these findings do provide hope for a future cure, more accurate predictions are still a way off.
What is male pattern baldness?
Male pattern baldness affects approximately 7.4 million men in the UK. It’s commonly associated with older men, but can actually start to develop right after puberty. There are a wide range of treatment options available, including medications, laser therapy, hair transplants and .
The best way to treat male pattern baldness right now, is to ensure you seek treatment as early as possible. While there is no cure, it is possible to slow down the hair loss and cover it up.
So, if you’re suffering from male pattern baldness, there is help available. Book a consultation to see which treatment options would be better suited to you.
