Male pattern baldness ‘linked to prostate cancer risk’

A newly-published scientific study has revealed a possible link between the onset of androgenic alopecia – also known as male pattern baldness – and the risk of prostate cancer.

Research conducted by the Department of Oncology Radiotherapy at the European Georges Pompidou Hospital in France has analysed 669 patients to investigate a potential association between the conditions, both of which are affected by androgen levels.

It was found that subjects with prostate cancer were twice as likely to have experienced signs of androgenic alopecia at age 20, though it was not suggested to be a predictive factor.

The researchers said it "remains to be determined" whether those affected by early-onset androgenic alopecia can benefit from routine cancer screening or treatment with 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.

Responding to the findings, which appeared in the Annals of Oncology, the Prostate Cancer Charity's chief executive John Neate said more research is necessary before a conclusive link can be made.

He added: "This new research is an interesting addition to the growing body of evidence into whether two male conditions, pattern baldness and prostate cancer, can be linked together."