Men with a specific type of male pattern baldness may need to get regular prostate checkups, as a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology has indicated an association between the two. According to the study, a group of over 39,000 men were enrolled in a cancer screening clinic and trial. In the study, these men reported their patterns of baldness. Once researchers began comparing notes, one theme became very clear. Those men with male pattern baldness in which their hair thinned on the crown and receded at the hairline had a 40 percent increased risk for a very aggressive type of prostate cancer
Although scientists are still unsure exactly what is causing this increased risk, they are speculating that the male sex hormones androgens are the root cause. Testosterone, a primary androgen, is not only clearly linked to the development of prostate cancer, but testosterone is also respon
sible for male pattern baldness.
As their bodies turn testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the hair follicles react to the DHT by shrinking, thus causing thinning hair and bald spots. However, it is possible, since the follicles themselves do not die, to re-stimulate hair growth by removing the sensitivity to DHT.
What does this mean for middle-aged men with male pattern baldness? While this study does seem to indicate a link between baldness and cancer, this does not automatically sentence you to such a grim fate. Almost 70 percent of men will face baldness at some point in their life, and 70 percent of men do not get prostate cancer. It’s crucial that you understand that having baldness does not mean you will get prostate cancer. What we can help you understand is where your male hormones are right now, where they need to be, and how we can help you battle baldness.
We recommend that you first visit us at our clinic to determine what type of baldness you are facing. Not only can you learn more about your condition, but you can also assess your own risks and your possible treatment for baldness. It is also important to get your hormones checked annually if you find yourself at increased risk.
If you have been trying to battle through male pattern baldness on your own, and are still not satisfied with the results, call us today and we will get you on the right path!
