Does Severity of Hair Loss Matter? Factors Associated with Mental Health Outcomes in Women Irradiated for Tinea Capitis in Childhood

The study investigated the impact of hair loss severity on mental health outcomes in 2,509 women who were irradiated for tinea capitis in childhood. It found that greater hair loss was associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, particularly social anxiety, with a relative risk of 2.44. Social problems, including social abuse and avoidance of social situations, mediated the relationship between hair loss severity and mental health problems. The study highlighted the need for healthcare professionals to consider the comprehensive physical, emotional, and social needs of these women, emphasizing the long-term psychological impact of hair loss and the importance of mental health support. Despite limitations such as its retrospective nature and reliance on self-reported data, the study provided valuable insights into how hair loss severity affects mental health.