Young Welsh men suffering hair loss after steroid use

The number of cases involving hair loss resulting from steroid use has nearly doubled in Wales. The use of steroids is now so common among young men trying to get fit, that users have “overtaken junkies,” according to one source. An alarming consequence of this is that some of these men are balding as a result. Impotence and the development on male breasts or ‘man-boobs’ have also resulted.

Research has shown that steroid use can increase the hormone that induces baldness in men. For those who are genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness, the onset of hair loss after taking steroids can be particularly fast. Male pattern baldness is a genetic condition, which affects half of all men in later life.

The majority of young Welsh men taking the drugs do so while they work out at the gym, in order to boost their body building efforts. Many do not realise the potential danger of the pills, and do not consider themselves drug users – even those who visit needle exchanges. One needle exchange in Wales says that 80% of its users are now steroid addicts, giving an indication of the huge scale of the problem.

There are many reasons why people lose their hair. Alopecia, a weak immune system, and stress can all result in hair follicles weakening, leading to baldness.

Thankfully treatments are available to help with some kinds of hair loss. One of these is Propecia, a prescription medication that can help with male-pattern baldness. With some types of hair loss like stress, remember that natural regrowth is possible if the cause is removed. If you are concerned about hair loss, consult a trained medical professional.