Malayali men experience hair loss as early as 25, study finds

KOCHI: Young Malayali men are among the worst affected by hair loss in the country, with the problem beginning at an average age of just 25, according to a study. While the average age of young men experiencing hair loss across India is 29, it is 25 in Kerala. Around 15.3 per cent of those aged 18 to 20 are already experiencing severe hair loss. However, 55.4 per cent of those affected seek treatment only when the condition reaches an advanced stage (Stage 3).

Mental stress, lack of sleep and metabolic disorders are among the major factors contributing to the problem. The findings are from a study by Traya Health, a leading Indian health-tech platform, which examined five lakh young people across the country. The study found a higher prevalence of metabolic disorders among young people in Kerala. As many as 65.2 per cent of those aged 18 to 20 were found to have metabolic issues. More than half of the men also reported experiencing mental stress.

Mental stress affects 50.2 per cent of men in the 18-20 age group. The figure rises to 61.1 per cent among those aged 36 to 40. According to the report, this trend continues until the age of 50. Hair loss is not caused by climate and hereditary factors alone. Internal imbalances linked to changing lifestyles also contribute to the problem. Experts warn that people should start taking precautions from their early twenties.

Good sleep is essential for hair growth

The cells in hair follicles and other parts of the body undergo repair and regeneration during sleep. Poor sleep can disrupt this process and contribute to hair loss. The prevalence of sleep deprivation rises from 34 per cent among those aged 18 to 20 to 39.6 per cent in the 41-50 age group. Kerala ranks second in South India in terms of poor sleep patterns. The state's rate is 6.1 per cent higher than the national average.