Researchers at the Cymrah Berghofer Institute for Medical Research in Australia examined whether hair loss in men correlates with melanoma risk. They explored how sun exposure on exposed skin could influence cancer development, a finding echoed by Health News reports.
Melanoma is a malignant tumor that originates from pigment cells called melanocytes, located in the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer.
The study involved roughly 29,000 men with skin cancer who provided data on their testosterone levels, overall health, and the condition of their scalp hair. The investigators found that men experiencing alopecia, whether partial or complete, showed an elevated risk of melanoma. The researchers proposed that hair loss may leave the scalp more exposed to ultraviolet radiation, increasing the likelihood of malignant changes in skin cells.
Additional observations indicated that lighter skin and hair tones, along with older age, were associated with a higher risk profile for melanoma. To reduce risk, experts advise protective measures such as wearing a hat in sunny conditions and applying sunblock to exposed skin as part of daily sun safety routines.
There is ongoing work to identify the genes involved in male hair loss and how they might relate to skin cancer risk, underscoring the need for preventive skin care and regular skin checks for men, particularly those with hair loss or fair complexions.