Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common condition that significantly affects about 1 in 5 in their 20s, about 1 in 3 in their 30s and nearly half in their 40s. It is caused by a combination of genetic, hormonal and age-related factors, and is characterized by a gradual loss of hair on the scalp. It is estimated that by the age of 50, half of all men will experience some degree of baldness. While it may be a natural part of aging, hair loss can cause psychological distress for many men. It's important to note that sudden or unexpected hair loss can also indicate a more serious underlying health condition that requires medical attention. Treatments for male pattern baldness include medications, laser and light therapies, and hair transplantation or replacement system.

Male-pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common condition affecting men as they grow older. This condition is caused by a combination of genetic, hormonal, and demographic causes. As hormone levels change over time, the tiny cavities in the skin at the base of hairs, known as scalp hair follicles, gradually shrink which leads to the growth of progressively shorter and finer hair, until no new hair growth occurs. Studies show that up to half of caucasian men will experience some degree of baldness by the age of 50, and this number increases to 80 percent by the age of 70. Other ethnic groups, such as Chinese and Japanese, are less affected. Men with a family history of baldness have a higher risk of experiencing hair loss themselves.

Hair loss can be caused by a variety of medical factors, including prostate cancer, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. It can also be a reaction to stress, an illness or surgery, or a side effect of certain medications. Some health conditions, such as lupus or a thyroid problem, can also cause hair loss. Other potential causes include iron deficiency, excess vitamin A, severe chronic illness, malnutrition, use of anticoagulants, and a disturbance of the hair growth cycle called telogen effluvium. Research has also shown a link between male pattern baldness and the androgen receptor (AR) gene, as well as an abnormal quantity of a protein called prostaglandin D2 in the scalps of some men.