The Impact of Female Pattern Hair Loss on Quality of Life

Abstract

Sheikh Zuhayr, Al Abadie Dina and Al Abadie Mohammed

Background: Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a non-scarring alopecia characterised by the progressive thinning of hair. Hair has an important role in determining one’s self-esteem, confidence and attractiveness. Hence, hair loss can heavily affect patients’ quality of life (QoL). This study aims to assess the impact FPHL has on QoL in order to help improve patient management.

Methods: Twenty-two patients presenting to an outpatient dermatology clinic in Wolverhampton, UK, took part in this study. The impact of FPHL on QoL was measured using two questionnaires: the women’s androgenic alopecia quality of life questionnaire (Waa-QoL) and the dermatology life quality index (DLQI). Participants were screened for psychological co-morbidity using the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS). Statistical tests used were Spearman’s rank correlation, Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis tests.

Results: FPHL had a large impact on QoL. Patients who were younger or had a longer duration of disease had a significantly lower QoL (p<0.05). Furthermore, patient with a diagnosed mental health illness had a significantly lower QoL than those without (p<0.05).

Conclusions: FPHL has a significant and detrimental effect on patients’ QoL. This study identifies several factors that are associated with a worse QoL outcome. This recognises groups of patients which could be targeted for more intensive intervention. Recognising the large impact on QoL, FPHL patients may benefit from a more holistic management with psychological interventions and a greater emphasis on improving QoL.

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