Hair loss is an emerging public-health concern in the rural areas of Bhagalpur district, Bihar, where nutritional challenges, genetic susceptibility, and psychological stress frequently coexist. This study examined the role of dietary patterns, genetic factors, and psychological stress in influencing hair-loss severity among adults in rural areas of Bhagalpur district. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted with a sample of 180 participants aged 18–60 years selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires on dietary habits, family history of hair loss, and perceived stress levels, along with basic clinical observation. Percentage analysis and chi-square tests were applied. Findings showed that 72% of individuals with low dietary diversity and 64% with irregular protein intake reported high hair loss. Moderate to severe hair loss was observed in 69% of participants with a positive family history. High stress was associated with greater hair shedding, reported by 74% of high-stress participants. The combined presence of poor diet, genetic risk, and high stress resulted in the highest hair-loss severity. All associations were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The study concludes that hair loss in the rural population of Bhagalpur district is multifactorial, with modifiable factors such as nutrition and stress management playing a crucial role. Community-based nutritional awareness and stress-reduction strategies may help reduce hair-loss burden in rural settings.
Article DOI: 10.62823/IJARCMSS/8.4(II).8463