この記事の概要
AGA (male pattern baldness) is relatively common among Westerners, especially Caucasian men. While there are known differences in incidence rates by region and race, AGA is found at a particularly high rate in Westerners, while the incidence rate tends to be somewhat lower in Asians and people of African descent.
1. Differences in incidence of AGA (comparison by race)
- Western (Caucasian) men: have the highest incidence of AGA, with approximately 50% of Caucasian men over age 50 experiencing AGA symptoms. In Caucasian men, hair thinning may begin at a relatively young age, with symptoms becoming more pronounced in the late 20s and 30s.
- Asians: The incidence of AGA is lower among Asians, including Japanese, than among Caucasians. In Japan, about 30% to 40% of men over age 50 experience symptoms of AGA. The onset of the disease is often somewhat late, with thinning hair progressing into the 40s and 50s in many cases.
- People of African descent: People of African descent tend to have an even lower incidence of AGA than Caucasians and Asians, but a certain percentage still have AGA.
2. Why AGA is more common in Westerners
Genetic factors and hormones (especially dihydrotestosterone: DHT) play a major role in the development of AGA. Differences in incidence by race are thought to be related primarily to genetic factors.
- Genetic Factors: Westerners, especially Caucasian men, have a higher percentage of genetic mutations associated with AGA. This makes them more susceptible to the effects of hormones and the damage DHT can cause to hair follicles, which leads to hair thinning.
- Hormonal effects: DHT, a hormone converted from testosterone, is the primary cause of AGA; when DHT binds to hair follicles, they shrink and hair growth is inhibited. Westerners are considered genetically more susceptible to DHT.
3. Differences in age of onset of AGA
Westerners generally tend to develop AGA at a younger age, often in their late 20s or 30s, with more than half of men experiencing AGA by their 50s.On the other hand, Asians and people of African descent tend to have a later age of onset, with symptoms typically appearing in their 40s or later.
4. Diffusion of AGA treatment
Treatment for AGA is widespread regardless of race or region. Treatments such as finasteride and minoxidil are effective not only for Westerners, but also for Asians and people of African descent, and are used to slow the progression of AGA.
5. Summary
The prevalence of AGA among Westerners (especially Caucasian men) is strongly related to genetic factors and hormonal influences. Westerners have a higher incidence of AGA and are more likely to develop thinning hair at a relatively young age, but not only do they have a higher incidence of AGA than Asians and people of African descent, but they also tend to progress more rapidly. All races share the same treatment for AGA, and with proper care and treatment, the progression of thinning hair can be reduced.
