Attitudes and practices of dermatologists and primary care physicians who treat patients for MPHL: results of a survey

Abstract

Objectives:The study’s objectives were (a) to characterize physicians’ attitudes and practices in relation to treating male pattern hair loss (MPHL), (b) to examine differences vis-à-vis physician distinctions, and (c) to consider the findings in relation to published research on MPHL patients’ treatment-seeking experiences.Methods:The online survey across six countries (United States, France, Germany, Spain, Japan, and Korea) involved 466 physicians (263 dermatologists and 203 primary care physicians [PCPs]) who at least occasionally treat patients for MPHL.Results:Over 50% of physicians were cognizant of patients’ concerns and the impact of hair loss on patients’ quality of life. Moreover, 65% were comfortable talking about MPHL with patients, and 62% were comfortable recommending treatment. On the other hand, about one-third of surveyed physicians were not especially comfortable assessing and treating MPHL. Relative to PCPs, dermatologists reported a significantly greater likelihood of spending time answering questions about MPHL and treatments (89 vs. 74%, p < 0.001), providing informational materials or brochures about MPHL (58 vs. 28%, p < 0.001), and letting the patient know that he/she frequently treats MPHL (40 vs. 28%, p < 0.006). Similar significant differences were evident in comparisons of frequent and non-frequent treaters. The primary goal physicians set for patients was prevention of additional hair loss (79%); secondary goals included preventing additional hair thinning/loss with potential for re-growth (65%) and informing patients they would see visible results within a year (63%). Study limitations include a lack of verification that physicians’ responses reflect their actual clinical practice and the possibility that physicians enrolled in a research database do not represent the general physician population.Conclusions:In contrast to physicians less experienced with MPHL treatment, dermatologists and other physicians frequently treating MPHL have attitudes and practices that may foster a favorable context for MPHL patient care.