Male Pattern Baldness, What are the odds – The Genetics?
Ultimately, male pattern baldness is a genetic condition, stemming predominantly from the maternal X-chromosome. This chromosome carries our androgen receptors, which are significant in deciding hair loss probability. Male pattern baldness comes from Mom due largely to the fact that women carry two X chromosomes and men carry one X and one Y. Therefore, women carry—and pass on—the genetic odds twice. However, this also eradicates the belief that male pattern baldness only comes from the mother. The androgen receptors lie within Dad’s genes 50% less than Mom’s, but he’s still got them. Research shows that a person whose father suffers male pattern baldness also has a greater chance of experiencing genetic hair loss.
What Else Contributes To Male Pattern Baldness?
Genetics greatly indicate the hair loss of men within a family, but do not guarantee male pattern baldness. Just like any other gene, baldness can skip a generation. Some factors that increase the odds of male pattern baldness in those who are genetically susceptible include:
- Emotional stress
- Stress caused by sleep deprivation
- Poor diet
- Bad blood circulation
- Drug abuse
- Infection
When genetics strike and you are left with male pattern baldness, there are several treatment possibilities. For more information on genetic hair loss, a free online consultation with Dr. Umar of the DermHair Clinic is just a click away.
Dr U discusses causes of hair loss in the american health Journal video interview