Prevalence of female pattern hair loss in postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional study

To identify the prevalence of female pattern hair loss (FPHL), hair characteristics, and associated factors in healthy postmenopausal women.

Two hundred postmenopausal women aged 50 to 65 years were recruited. Each participant was evaluated for FPHL according to Ludwig's classification using standardized global photography in all six views and trichoscopy for hair density and diameter. Three dermatologists re-evaluated all pictures for confirmation of FPHL. The time since menopause, levels of scalp sebum, serum testosterone, estradiol, thyroid stimulating hormone, and hemoglobin; family history of hair loss, as well as an evaluation of low self-esteem were evaluated. Women who underwent recent hair loss treatments were excluded. We used simple and multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the factors affecting FPHL.

In total, 178 postmenopausal women were evaluated for hair-loss patterns. The average age and time since menopause were 58.8±4.1 and 9.2 ± 5.6 years, respectively. The prevalence of FPHL was 52.2% (95% CI, 44.6-59.8). Severity of FPHL by Ludwig grades I, II, and III was 73.2% (95% CI, 62.9-81.8), 22.6% (95% CI, 14.6-32.4), and 4.3% (95% CI, 1.2-10.7), respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that age, time since menopause, and body mass index were all significantly associated with FPHL. After adjusting for age and family history of FPHL, only body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 was significantly associated with FPHL (adjusted OR = 2.65, 95% CI, 1.23-5.70). Conclusion: The prevalence of FPHL was high in postmenopausal women, raising the need for hair loss awareness in menopause clinics. Early detection and proper treatment of FPHL may increase the quality of life in postmenopausal women.