By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: Hair loss and baldness are increasingly affecting both men and women in Pakistan, driven by nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalance and the use of substandard cosmetic products, health experts said at a national seminar held in Lahore.
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Speaking at the National Seminar on Hair Loss and Its Treatment, organized by the General Cadre Doctors Association, Army Doctors Association and the Society of Family Physicians of Pakistan at the Pearl Continental Hotel, renowned hair transplant surgeon Dr Humayun Mehmand said that hair loss is no longer limited to men, as a growing number of women are now experiencing thinning hair and bald patches.
He said deficiencies of essential vitamins and minerals play a major role in hair fall, while in men, hormonal factors are a key cause. “Shedding 100 to 150 hairs daily is normal, but excessive hair fall leads to a condition known as androgenic alopecia,” he explained, adding that modern treatments, including medicines and PRP therapy, can effectively manage the problem if addressed early.
Dr Masood Sheikh said hair loss not only affects physical appearance but also impacts personality and confidence. He emphasized that natural hair transplantation can significantly improve self-esteem and social confidence. He warned that food adulteration, unqualified practitioners, and the unchecked use of steroids and unverified medicines are accelerating baldness, especially among youth.
Former army officer Captain Dr Qasim Khan cautioned that the use of low-quality shampoos and cosmetic products is another major contributor to hair fall. He urged people to seek professional medical advice instead of relying on advertisements or unqualified individuals.
Other speakers, including Dr Tariq Aziz, Dr Asad Abbas Shah, Dr Sarim, Dr Javed Mumtaz, Dr Asim Farooqi, Dr Mian Tariq and Dr Muhammad Ashraf, stressed that abandoning traditional healthy practices, following unverified home remedies, and consulting non-qualified healers are worsening hair-related conditions.
A large number of general cadre doctors attended the seminar, which concluded with a call for public awareness about timely diagnosis, balanced nutrition and medically approved treatments to prevent avoidable hair loss.
