Metropolis develops screening test to predict genetic predisposition to baldness

The genetic screening test for the pattern of hair loss helps the doctor assess the risk involved

July 2010

Metropolis Healthcare Ltd, India’s only multi-national chain of diagnostics centre, has developed a screening test to predict whether an individual is genetically predisposed to hereditary male and female pattern baldness.

After exhaustive research, the Molecular Biology department of Metropolis has developed the Genetic Test for Hair Loss that provides an accurate genetic analysis of a man or woman’s likelihood of developing androgenetic alopecia, the most common type of hair loss.

The test involves DNA analysis and determines whether an individual has inherited the receptor gene of ‘androgenetic alopecia’. The genetic screening test for the pattern of hair loss helps the doctor assess the risk involved and can provide one with an early medical intervention prior to visible signs of the same.

The genetic test costs Rs 9,000 and is most appropriate for people above 18 years of age who are concerned about hair loss or for those who have a family history of baldness.

The test is a simple non-invasive procedure which takes half a minute. The analysis uses a simple painless cheek swab that can determine the genetic risk of developing male and female hair loss.

The lab results are then entered into their unique genetic information system that determines whether or not they are at risk for early onset of male pattern baldness. If the results show high-risk that means there’s a 60 per cent probability of severe hair loss by the time an individual attains 40 years of age while low-risk means that the individual has an 80 per cent chance of not losing hair by age 60.

According to Ameera Patel, CEO and executive director, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd early detection or prediction of hair loss can help in recommending the most effective medication to prevent future hair loss and baldness. The genetic test for hair loss will help an individual determine a genetic susceptibility to hair loss before thinning or receding hair becomes apparent.

The most obvious advantage of this test is that an individual doesn’t have to wait until they are in the midst of massive hair shedding. Individuals can save precious time in halting hair loss because there is always a lag time between the onset and effect of the therapy to treat baldness. This test adds a vital new element to our professional diagnostic capabilities. Any individual worried about losing hair can come to Metropolis for a simple, confidential predictive test.

For the purpose of speedy diagnosis, patients could call the Metropolis Helpline Number: 6650 5555

Metropolis Healthcare Ltd, founded by Dr Sushil Shah in 1981 and NABL accredited and ISO 15189 certified. Besides, India, the diagnostic chain covers Sri Lanka, Nigeria, South Africa, Bangladesh, Nepal and Mauritius. It provides around 4,000 specialized tests under a single roof ranging from oncology to genetics, molecular biology and immunoassays using best-of-breed and latest diagnostic equipment. It is a preferred referral center with more than 10,000 laboratories, clinicians, hospitals and research institutions across 125 cities India.
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