Breakthrough Baldness Genetic Test
A groundbreaking genetic test to identify those most at risk from hair loss is now available in the UK for both men and women. UK (PRWEB) October 17, 2008 -- A groundbreaking genetic test to identify those most at risk from hair loss is now available in the UK for both men and women.
Currently only available at Farjo Hair Transplant Clinic (http://www.farjo.com), the simple, non-invasive test can determine whether an individual is genetically pre-disposed to pattern baldness. The test uses a DNA sample collected from a cheek swab.
The Hair DX screening test is suitable for those who are concerned about hair loss, or who have a family history of baldness. The objective of the test is to identify those at high risk of pattern baldness before they begin to lose their hair. Advances can then be taken to reduce the onset of pattern baldness.
Current diagnosis of pattern baldness relies on visual observations alone. However, once hair thinning is visible, around 50 per cent of hair will have been lost from that area of the scalp already.
Dr Bessam Farjo, co-founder of Farjo Medical Centre, said:
"The genetic test enables risk of pattern baldness to be assessed before hair loss occurs. Earlier intervention and treatment give patients the best chance of success, as the only FDA approved medications to combat hair loss - minoxidil and finasteride - are most effective at stabilising hair loss rather than stimulating re-growth."
The test for male pattern baldness provides information on the presence of a specific gene variation on the X chromosome. Men who test positive are at high risk of developing early-onset male pattern baldness.
The test for female pattern baldness provides women with a score, called a CAG repeat score. A smaller test score is associated with a higher risk for significant hair loss.
Dr Bessam Farjo and his wife Dr Nilofer Farjo head up Farjo Medical Centre. They carry out more than 300 hair transplant operations each year at their Manchester clinic. More than 4,000 people have travelled to the clinic from across the UK, Europe and as far as the Middle East, Australia and the United States, including high profile celebrities such as Kyran Bracken (Rugby Player and Dancing on ice) and Shaun Williamson (actor).
The centre has an international reputation for not only using the latest hair transplantation techniques - recognised throughout the surgical field - but for placing significant emphasis on developing pioneering ways to counter hair loss, including a state-of-the-art test procedure whereby a patient's hair follicles are cloned.
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