Feasibility of a culturally tailored traction alopecia prevention curriculum in a diverse urban middle school: a pilot study

Traction alopecia (TA) is a preventable form of hair loss that disproportionately affects individuals of African descent because of high-tension hairstyling practices. TA often begins in childhood, yet few interventions target early education. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary impact of a culturally tailored TA prevention curriculum for middle school students.

To develop and pilot a culturally tailored traction alopecia prevention curriculum for middle school students and evaluate feasability, acceptability and preliminary education impact.

A 45-minute interactive curriculum on TA causes, prevention, and healthy hair care was delivered to students at an urban middle school. Pre- and postsurveys assessed knowledge, hair care practices, and attitudes toward scalp health. Data were analyzed descriptively because of variations in survey question phrasing.

Of 73 participants, 35 completed both surveys. Before the program, only 11.4% had heard of TA. After the session, 91.4% reported improved understanding of TA, and 34.3% were "very likely" to change hairstyling practices. Most participants (74.3%) rated the session 7/10 or higher in value, and 82.9% intended to share the information with family.

Findings are limited by the small sample size, single-school setting, and lack of long-term follow-up to assess sustained behavior change.

This pilot curriculum was feasible, well-received, and increased awareness of TA. Future studies should refine the curriculum, standardize evaluation tools, and examine long-term behavior change to support equitable hair health education in at-risk communities.