Prevalence of Hair Loss, Dandruff, and Its Knowledge and Prevention Among the Pakistani Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Hair loss and dandruff are prevalent issues affecting a substantial portion of the Pakistani population. These conditions have significant cultural, social, and psychological impacts, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their prevalence, causes, and management strategies. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of hair loss and dandruff among the Pakistani population, identify the contributing factors, and assess the common management practices used by affected individuals. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2023 in Karachi, Pakistan, utilizing a non-probability convenient sampling technique. A total of 353 consenting participants aged 18 years and above were included. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire developed after a comprehensive literature review and under the guidance of a practicing dermatologist. The questionnaire, translated into Urdu, included sections on socio-demographic data, hair type, experiences with hair loss and dandruff, treatment practices, and perceived causes. The survey was distributed via social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and email. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with descriptive statistics summarizing demographic characteristics and prevalence, and chi-square tests assessing associations between hair conditions and socio-demographic factors. Results: The study included 353 participants, of whom 58% were female and 40.3% were male. The majority were aged 18-24 years (77.3%). Hair loss was reported by 76.2% of participants, while 20.4% reported dandruff. Common contributing factors included stress (35.1%), lack of proper hair care (28.9%), poor diet (25.2%), and genetics (11.0%). Home remedies were the primary management practice (45.6%), with 30.9% not seeking any treatment. Conclusion: Hair loss and dandruff are significant issues in Pakistan, with hair loss being more prevalent. Stress, poor diet, and inadequate hair care are major contributing factors. There is a need for increased awareness and effective management strategies, including addressing psychological impacts. Public health initiatives should focus on educating the population about the causes and treatments of these conditions.