Why Are Men With Premature Alopecia at Higher Risk of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia? And What About Prostate Cancer?

The document from 2012 explores the connection between premature androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and an increased risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as well as the debated link with prostate cancer. AGA, a common hair loss condition in men, is influenced by genetics and androgens, especially dihydrotestosterone (DHT). A case-control study mentioned in the text indicates that men with early onset AGA tend to have larger prostates and more urinary symptoms, implying that AGA could be an early indicator of BPH. While some research suggests a possible association between AGA and prostate cancer, the evidence is inconsistent. The document also discusses the use of finasteride, a treatment for AGA, noting that despite concerns about a higher risk of high-grade prostate cancer, recent reviews deem it safe. The shared androgen-related pathophysiology is proposed as the reason for the links between AGA, BPH, and potentially prostate cancer.