Source
University of Oulu, Department of Public Health Science and General Practice, Oulu, Finland. paivi.hirsso@oulu.fi
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Previous investigations have revealed an association of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), especially in younger subjects with severe early-onset AGA, with ischemic heart disease.
OBJECTIVE:
To examine the possible association between early-onset alopecia and low-grade inflammation measured by high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) that has been recommended for the assessment of the cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.
METHODS:
The study population consisted of young men (n = 727, aged 25-34 years) participating in a national survey. The grade of alopecia was assessed by a trained nurse using the Norwood/Hamilton Classification Scale.
RESULTS:
Men with moderate to extensive alopecia (17%) had a higher body mass index and larger waist, upper arm, hip and waist circumference than those with little to no alopecia (p < 0.05), and statistically insignificant differences were seen in the waist-to-hip circumference ratio (WHR), diastolic blood pressure and hs-CRP. With increasing hs-CRP, the mean WHR increased, but only among men with moderate to extensive alopecia (p = 0.043).
CONCLUSION:
Our findings show a relation between moderate to extensive alopecia and low-grade inflammation--a predictor of a future CVD--especially combined with central obesity, among men younger than 35 years.
Copyright 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.