The Association of Male Pattern Baldness and Risk of Cancer and High-Grade Disease Among Men Presenting for Prostate Biopsy
December 2016
in “
Canadian Urological Association journal
”
TLDR Men with more advanced male pattern baldness have a higher risk of prostate cancer and more severe disease.
In a study of 394 men undergoing prostate biopsy at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, researchers found that male pattern baldness (MPB) was associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer (PCa) and high-grade disease. Using the modified Norwood classification system to assess MPB, the study revealed a dose-effect relationship where higher Norwood patterns correlated with higher risks. Men with Norwood scale 3 and 4 had an increased risk for cancer, and those with Norwood pattern 4 had an increased risk for high-grade disease. The study concluded that MPB is a strong and independent risk factor for both cancer and high-grade disease in this population, suggesting the need for further research and potential integration into clinical decision-making processes.
