Investigating self-reported hair loss following covid-19 infection in the Iraqi population

Abstract

Background: Hair\r\nloss is a growing concern reported by many individuals recovering from COVID-19\r\ninfection. This phenomenon, known as post-COVID hair loss, can be a significant\r\nsource of distress. This cross-sectional study investigates the prevalence and\r\ncharacteristics of self-reported hair loss following COVID-19 infection in the\r\nIraqi population. Methods: This\r\ncross-sectional study (April-June 2023) investigated hair loss following\r\nCOVID-19 in Iraqis (n=480, ≥19 years). An online survey assessed demographics,\r\nCOVID-19 details, and hair loss experiences. Descriptive statistics and\r\nchi-square tests explored associations between hair loss and factors like\r\nCOVID-19 infection, severity, sex, and age. Results: Among\r\n480 participants, 74.5% reported self-reported hair loss, with most\r\nexperiencing onset within 1-2 months of COVID-19. The duration of hair loss\r\nvaried, with nearly equal proportions experiencing hair loss for 1-2 months and\r\nexceeding 6 months. A significant majority (79.5%) sought medical attention\r\nfrom a dermatologist. Hair loss was more prevalent among those with a history\r\nof COVID-19 infection (83.5%) compared to those who tested negative (38.0%).\r\nSex did not show a statistically significant association with hair loss, but\r\nage did. The youngest age group (19-29 years) had the highest prevalence of\r\nhair loss. Conclusion: The\r\nstudy identified a high prevalence of self-reported hair loss following\r\nCOVID-19 infection, suggesting a potential link. The hair loss characteristics\r\nalign with telogen effluvium. Further research is needed to explore the biological\r\nmechanisms and develop targeted treatments.