TLDR The analysis found that alopecia areata, a hair loss condition, is not very common in Australia, affecting about 0.13% of people, with new cases most often seen in males aged 19 to 34 years.
The retrospective analysis of electronic health record data from 2011 to 2020, involving 1,110,845 eligible records, aimed to determine the incidence and prevalence of alopecia areata (AA) in Australia. The study found 976 new cases and 520 existing cases of AA. The mean age at diagnosis for new-onset AA was 34.43 years, with 53% of these patients being male. The incidence of new-onset AA was 0.278 per 1000 person-years, peaking in the 19- to 34-year-old age bracket. Females had a lower incidence of AA compared to males. The prevalence of AA in Australia was 0.13% on 31 December 2020. Among those with new-onset AA, 9% had comorbid depression and 2% had comorbid anxiety. Approximately 17% of those with new-onset AA were prescribed antidepressants and 9% anxiolytics. The study also found variations in incidence rates across different states and socioeconomic statuses.
11 citations,
July 2022 in “Frontiers in immunology” Cases of alopecia areata and its impact on life quality rose globally, but when adjusted for age, the rates decreased, especially in poorer regions.
100 citations,
July 2018 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” People with alopecia areata often have other health issues like skin diseases, metabolic syndrome, stomach infections, lupus, anemia, thyroid problems, mental health issues, vitamin D deficiency, and hearing and eye problems.
69 citations,
April 2017 in “BMJ open” Many people with alopecia experience high levels of social anxiety, anxiety, and depression, and while wigs can boost confidence, they may also cause anxiety.
162 citations,
October 2014 in “Autoimmunity reviews” Alopecia areata is caused by the immune system attacking hair follicles.
51 citations,
September 2015 in “Medical Clinics of North America” The conclusion is that acne, alopecia, and hyperhidrosis are common skin issues with various treatments available, and accurate diagnosis is key for effective management.
6 citations,
May 2017 in “InTech eBooks” Hair loss can cause serious mental health problems and treating it requires a team of experts.
20 citations,
February 2022 in “British Journal of Dermatology” People with alopecia areata have a higher risk of depression and anxiety, and often face unemployment and work absences.
4 citations,
July 2022 in “Journal of health economics and outcomes research” Alopecia areata in US adolescents leads to significant healthcare costs and usage.
10 citations,
January 2023 in “Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” Alopecia areata greatly affects people's life quality, mental health, and work life.
