Many men in Hong Kong fear losing their hair because they think that would make them less attractive in the eyes of their partners, shows a survey.

More than 60 percent of the over 1,000 men the study covered were worried about hair loss, with over 50 percent saying it would make them unattractive to their wives or girlfriends.

A researcher who conducted the study said: "Our findings show men show great concern about their appearance, and hair loss constitutes a significant blow to their self esteem. Hong Kong's culture often focuses on the outward appearance and cosmetic enhancements, and men as well as women are (more) concerned about looking good."

About 50 percent men said hair loss would make them less confident and more self-conscious in the presence of females.

"Our hair speaks about our social, cultural, professional and religious leanings, and it is a part of our self expression. Studies have shown that bald or balding men are often regarded by others as older, weaker or more incompetent. They are often seen as less desirable potential mates or (even) less virile, and less capable of providing for a family," the researcher said.

Past studies have shown Asian men with dark or black hair are less disposed to losing hair than their Caucasian counterparts. But an increase in westernized diets and lifestyle changes such as late night-outs and long working hours have had an impact on the 20-to-30 age group men, with many of them facing hair-loss problems.

Male-pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss. This is a hereditary condition and men who start losing their hair at an early age tend to develop more extensive baldness.

In male-pattern baldness, hair loss usually culminates in a receding hair line and a bald patch on the top of the head.

Causes of hair loss include diseases, use of medication, stress, family history or hereditary factors and hormone imbalance. Improper care of hair is also another major factor for hair loss.

(China Daily HK Edition July 14, 2005)