Shocking Hair Loss Statistics from Ireland

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A recent study has found that 49% of young Irish men under the age of 30 believe themselves to be experiencing some form of hair loss. This figure is somewhat surprising, as hair loss typically corresponds to age, and in this category, just 30% of men should be reporting hair loss issues.

Why are these figures so high?

Hair loss can be caused by a number of conditions, with some being more “permanent” than others. Hair lost due to Male Pattern Balding tends to be permanent if left untreated, whilst stress-related conditions like Telogen Effluvium tend to resolve themselves over time. Regardless of the cause of the reported hair loss however, 49% of men aged under 30 still seems like a remarkably high percentage.

Could genetics be to blame?

Conditions such as Male Pattern Baldness (or Androgenic Alopecia to give it its proper name) have been shown to be caused by a genetic predisposition. For men losing hair from their temples and crown, Androgenic Alopecia is the most likely cause, and is in fact the most common cause of hair loss across the world.

However, because this condition is found across the world, there is no reason to believe that Irish people are any more predisposed to Androgenic Alopecia than anyone else.

Could these figures be caused by stress?

The Irish economy has been one of the most high profile casualties of the global financial crisis, and will have no doubt been the cause of much stress to individuals, as well as the big banks. As previously mentioned, hair loss caused by Telogen Effluvium can be triggered by severe emotional stress, suggesting that at least some of the men surveyed may be experiencing the condition.

However, serious cases of Telogen Effluvium remains relatively rare, so men affected by the condition would only make up a small proportion of the survey sample.

So is it something else?

The survey findings suggest that hair loss affects 20% more of the under-30 population than might be expected; implying that something is unusual is afoot on the other side of the Irish Sea. However, there is one other possible explanation for the results.

Every day, humans lose between 80 and 100 hairs as part of the natural growth cycle. It is therefore not irrational to suggest that the hair loss reported by some of the men surveyed is totally normal and not an indicator of an underlying condition at all. The easiest way to tell if this is the case would be to monitor the hairline of the men involved to see if it is really receding.

What can men affected by hair loss do?

For men genuinely concerned about their hair line, the first step should be to arrange an appointment with a suitably-qualified hair loss expert, such as The Belgravia Centre, who will be able to give a full and accurate diagnosis. For some men, this may be the start of a custom hair loss treatment plan to promote hair regrowth, whilst for others it may result in being given the “all clear”.

So regardless of your age, why not contact us online or call today on 0800 077 6666 to arrange a free consultation? You can also fill in our online diagnostic form for a home use treatment programme sent directly to your door.

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