Prevalence and Determinants of Hair Fall, Hair Loss and Premature Graying in Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Hair conditions such as hair fall, hair loss, and premature graying can significantly impact the psychological well-being and quality of life of young adults. While these conditions are often perceived as inevitable with aging, an increasing prevalence among younger populations raises concerns about the potential role of lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors.

Objective: To assess the prevalence and determinants of hair fall, hair loss, and premature graying in young adults residing in an urban slum area.

Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Zone 3 of an urban slum with a population of 12,000, randomly selected from four zones. Using a pre-validated questionnaire, data were collected from 400 participants aged 18-35 years. Every 6th house was approached for participation, and face-to-face interviews were conducted. Factors such as hair care practices, family history, stress, and environmental exposures were assessed for their association with hair conditions. Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant determinants.

Results: The overall prevalence of hair graying, hair fall, and hair loss was 33.2%, 56.5%, and 18.7%, respectively. Females showed a higher prevalence of both hair graying (37.9%) and hair fall (65.9%) compared to males (26.7% and 43.4%, respectively), while males had a higher prevalence of hair loss (19.6%). Significant associations were found between hair graying and factors such as shampoo use, family history, use of artificial dyes, helmet use, dandruff, and stress (p < 0.05). Similarly, hair fall was associated with shampoo use, stress, dandruff, and helmet use (p < 0.05), but no significant association was found with hard water and sleep patterns.

Conclusion: This study reveals a high prevalence of hair graying and hair fall among young adults, particularly females, in an urban slum area. Modifiable factors such as stress and use of chemical-based hair products are key contributors to these conditions. Public health interventions focusing on awareness, stress management, and safer hair care practices may help mitigate the early onset of these hair conditions in this population. Further research is needed to explore causal mechanisms and extend findings to other socioeconomic contexts.