Scientists 'close' to cure for baldness
Scientists believe they are close to a cure for baldness. This is welcome news for millions of bald or balding people worldwide. Researchers in California have been working on developing stem cells that can regenerate hair growth. Their implant technique has been successful in developing fresh growth in a way that copies natural hair reproduction. A researcher said the research overcomes key challenges. He said: "Now we have a robust, highly controlled method for generating natural-looking hair that grows through the skin using an unlimited source of human stem cells." Baldness affects about half of all men by the age of 50. Hair replacement products and hair transplants are a multi-billion-dollar global industry. Transplant surgery can cost up to $50,000. The process of hair loss usually starts in men in their early twenties or thirties. This can lead to anxiety and a loss of self-confidence. Many men worry about receding hairlines, bald spots and baldness. Baldness is also a problem for women. Many women have thinning hair later in their life. A doctor said hair loss greatly affected people's lives. |