Prevalence, Contributing Factors, and Perceived Stress Associated With Hair Loss Among Students and Faculty Members in a Private Pharmacy College in Telangana, India

Background: The problem of HL is multifaceted, that affects individuals worldwide and is associated with both physiological and psychological influences. Several reasons, including stress, nutritional imbalances, hormonal fluctuations, hair grooming practices, and the application of hair care items can trigger it. This research intends to evaluate the incidence of HL, its contributing factors, and the associated stress levels perceived by students and faculty at a private pharmacy college located in Cheeryal, Telangana, India. Aim: To assess the prevalence of hair loss, its associated factors, and perceived stress among students and faculty members of a private pharmacy college in Telangana, India. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among pharmacy students and faculty members from July 2024 to January 2025. A pre-validated questionnaire was used which included hair loss awareness questions, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4), Alopecia Areata Symptom Impact Scale (AASIS), and Modified Hairdex Questionnaire. Data were analysed using SPSS software. Chi-square tests and Spearman’s correlation were used to determine associations between variables. Participants were selected through convenience sampling from a private pharmacy college. Informed consent was granted before distribution, and was carried out in a classroom setting. Results: A total of 302 completed questionnaires were analysed from 305 distributed surveys (response rate: 99%). Most participants were aged 18–20 years (62%) and were female (72%). Approximately 40% of participants reported mild hair loss, while 19% reported significant hair loss. Moderate stress levels were observed among a majority of participants. Hair loss was significantly associated with academic stress, family history, and lifestyle factors (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis demonstrated relationships between psychological distress and hair loss-related factors. Conclusion: Significant factors involved are academic stress, anxiety, and distress related to self- perceived HL. The results emphasize the importance of focused mental health strategies to alleviate stress and enhance overall well-being, which could also aid in addressing HL issues.