A Cross-Sectional Study on the Prevalence of Premature Canities Among University Students in the Eastern Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background: Premature graying of the hair (PMGH), commonly referred to as canities, is a condition that has both genetic and environmental causes, all of which are not fully understood, and is typically accompanied by severe psychological distress. Studies are limited regarding PMGH, with no clear guidelines available. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the academic year 2023-2024 among medical students in a college in Saudi Arabia. Results: Out of 239 medical students surveyed (mean age of 22.9 ± 5.3 years; 54.4% female), the prevalence of premature graying of hair (PMGH) was 37.2%. PMGH was significantly associated with smoking (80% vs. 34.8%; p = 0.003), keto diet (72.7% vs. 35.5%; p = 0.013), hair coloring (51.2% vs. 34.3%; p = 0.042), and family history of PMGH (47.7% vs. 20%; p = 0.001). Although our study did not directly measure psychological stress, the findings suggest that stressful factors and lifestyle changes common among medical students may contribute to the development of premature graying of hair. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that early hair graying is caused by both genetic and modifiable factors, and its incidence and psychosocial effects might be lessened with increased awareness and early lifestyle changes.