Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 7, 2025

A New Technique for Quantitative Analysis of Hair Loss in Mice Using Grayscale Analysis
Published on: March 9, 2015
Insights of prostate diseases risk among patients with male pattern baldness: a mendelian randomized study
Zhiqiang Wang1, Zhuocheng Bao2, Xinfang Cao2
1Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanxi Medical University Affiliated Lvliang Hospital, People's Hospital of Lvliang City, Lvliang, China.
Background:
Male pattern baldness (MPB) is commonly associated with prostate diseases, both of which can significantly impact men's quality of life. However, the relationship and causality between them remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the causal relationship between the two.
Methods:
Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was the primary Mendelian randomization method, with MR Egger, weighted median, and MRPRESSO as complements. Sensitivity analyses included Cochran's Q, MR Egger intercept, and MRPRESSO.
Results:
MPB was found to be negatively correlated with prostate cancer (IVW: OR = 0.986, 95% CI = 0.974-0.999, P = 0.033). This causal relationship was further supported by the weighted median (OR = 0.981, 95% CI = 0.969-0.993, P = 0.002), MR-Egger (OR = 0.977, 95% CI = 0.960-0.994, P = 0.010), and MRPRESSO (OR = 0.986, 95% CI = 0.974-0.999, P = 0.037) methods. Additionally, the weighted median analysis indicated that MPB was positively correlated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (OR = 1.027, 95% CI = 1.003-1.052, P = 0.024).
Conclusions:
Our findings suggest that genetically predicted MPB may reduce prostate cancer risk but increase the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Timely prostate screening in patients with MPB could help prevent and manage prostate diseases.
Insights
Male pattern baldness (MPB) may decrease prostate cancer risk but increase the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Early prostate screening for MPB patients is recommended for disease prevention and management.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Urology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Male pattern baldness (MPB) and prostate diseases significantly impact men's quality of life.
- The causal relationship between MPB and prostate diseases remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential causal relationship between male pattern baldness and prostate diseases using Mendelian randomization.
Main Methods:
- Primary analysis utilized inverse variance weighting (IVW).
- Complementary methods included MR Egger, weighted median, and MRPRESSO.
- Sensitivity analyses employed Cochran's Q, MR Egger intercept, and MRPRESSO.
Main Results:
- Genetically predicted MPB showed a negative correlation with prostate cancer risk (IVW: OR=0.986, P=0.033).
- This association was robust across multiple MR methods.
- MPB was positively correlated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) risk (weighted median: OR=1.027, P=0.024).
Conclusions:
- Genetically predicted MPB may reduce prostate cancer risk.
- MPB might increase the risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia.
- Prostate screening in individuals with MPB is advised for proactive disease management.
Related Concept Videos
Pleiotropy
Pedigree Analysis
Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra....
The Y Chromosome Determines Maleness
Evolution
Around 300 million years ago, the two sex chromosomes diverged from two identical autosomal chromosomes. Over time, the Y chromosome has lost most of its genes, shrinking in size....

