Does Hair Loss Impact Mood, Self-esteem, Body Image, and Quality of Life in Patients of Androgenetic Alopecia?

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is one of the most common with prevalence increasing with age and is associated with feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, less satisfaction with the body, and lower self-worth. Objectives: We undertook this study to find out the prevalence of depression, levels of self-esteem, body image disturbance, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with AGA. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was initiated after taking permission from the institutional ethics committee and written informed consent of the patient in the specialized Hair Outpatient Department of the Department of Dermatology of a general municipal hospital. One hundred and twenty-three patients diagnosed as AGA by the dermatologist were recruited and interviewed with a specially prepared pro forma and scales to determine the aims of the study. Results: Forty-six percent had depression with borderline and moderate severity. None had severe depression or suicidal ideations. Depression was seen in Types 3, 4, and 5 of male pattern baldness and Stages 3 and 4 of female pattern baldness. 11.6% had body image concerns and 12% had low self-esteem. Sixty-two percent had no impact on their QoL. Conclusions: The results of this study imply that there is a high prevalence of psychopathology in patients of AGA. It is important for dermatologists and physicians to be aware of the psychiatric comorbidities with benefits of early referral to the psychiatrist for better patient outcomes.