Screening test to predict genetic predisposition to baldness

The Genetic Test for Hair Loss is a simple painless non-invasive procedure that determines an individual’s genetic susceptibility to baldness

June 2010

Most medical conditions can best be addressed with early diagnosis. Genetic hair loss is no different. Metropolis Healthcare Ltd, India’s only multi-national chain of diagnostics center, 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 Andogenetic 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 about a 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.

Says Ameera Patel, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd CEO and Executive Director, “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.”

Customers can also call the Metropolis Helpline Number: 6650 5555 to know more details.

About Metropolis Healthcare Ltd.

Metropolis Healthcare Ltd. was founded by Dr. Sushil Shah in 1981. The management team includes Dr. Sushil Shah, Chairman, Dr. G. S. K Velu- Managing Director, who joined Metropolis in 1999 as an equal partner, Ms. Ameera Patel, Executive Director and CEO and Mr. Ganesan, Director, Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Metropolis Healthcare is India’s only multinational chain of diagnostic centers across India, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, South Africa, Bangladesh, Nepal and Mauritius.

It provides around 4000 specialized tests under a single roof ranging from oncology to genetics, molecular biology and immunoassays using best-of-breed and latest diagnostic equipment.

Metropolis is a preferred referral center for more than 10000 laboratories, clinicians, hospitals and research institutions across 125 cities India. The CAP, US FDA for the SMO services, NABL accredited and ISO 15189 certified Metropolis chain of laboratories has over 350 centers and is a preferred laboratory for providing quality testing to over 50, 000 Doctors across the country.

Services include Clinical Referral Laboratory (Over 4000 Tests) Hospital Laboratory Management, Preventive Health Checkups, Site Management Services, Clinical Trials.

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