Genetic Test Indicates a Young Man's Chances of Becoming Bald

A simple consumer-friendly test has been developed that provides an accurate and understandable genetic analysis of a man's likelihood of developing male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).

A man can learn about his genetic predisposition to balding before he reaches the age of 40. People who have certain variations in their X-chromosome are likely (95.1-98.1%) to develop pattern baldness before age 40. The test is simple--the man swabs his mouth (inside cheek) for several seconds and returns the swab to lab. The test is performed anonymously and the results delivered via a secure and private Web site.

The information provided by the test, which has been named HairDX, enables the consumer to make informed decisions about what approach, if any, he should take, including discussing hair loss with a qualified physician. HairDX.com also provides a support center with access to a registered nurse.

HairDX (Irvine, CA, USA) developed the genetic baldness test and has announced its commercial release. The company was founded by scientists and specialists in genetic analysis and hair therapies. It is created to help people make the right decisions about hair care, treatment, and restoration by providing accurate and accessible personalized scientific information.

The genetic analysis is performed by BioServe (Beltsville, MD, USA), a laboratory specializing in the processing, development, and validation of diagnostic tests for the practice of personalized, predictive, and preventive medicine. BioServe is a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-certified laboratory.

"The most common form of hair loss, androgenetic alopecia, is hereditary. Looking at your father's or grandfather's head has been an inaccurate, nonscientific barometer. The genetic revolution will enable patients and physicians to gain deeper understanding of hair loss,” said Peter Novak, M.D., Ph.D., a scientist at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center (Worcester, MA, USA). Dr Novak is an innovator in the field of stem cell therapies for treatment of hair loss.

"Each year, men in their 20s and 30s spend millions of dollars on pharmaceuticals, topical products, and other costly treatments trying to prevent baldness. Some of this is done by males who may not go bald in the first place,” said HairDX CEO Andy Goren.


Related Links:
HairDX
BioServe
University of Massachusetts Medical Center