Publication:

Study to assess the association between screen time, other life style factors and hair fall

Background Hair fall is one of the most common cosmetic concerns among young adults and is influenced by genetic, environmental, nutritional, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. With the rapid increase in digital device usage, screen time has emerged as a potential lifestyle factor affecting overall health. The present study aimed to assess the association between screen time, sleep duration, stress levels, and hair fall among young adults.

Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 300 young adults aged 15-25 years. Data regarding demographic characteristics, average daily screen time, sleep duration, perceived stress, family history of hair fall, medical conditions affecting hair, and hair fall characteristics were collected using a structured online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Associations between lifestyle factors and hair fall were assessed using Chi-square tests. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results Among 300 participants, 57.3% belonged to the age group of 21-25 years and 66.3% were females. Increased hair fall during the preceding six months was reported by 65.3% of participants. Significant associations were observed between screen time and increased hair fall (χ2=10.624, p=0.014), screen time and hair fall severity (χ2=15.377, p=0.018), and stress levels and increased hair fall (χ2=11.793, p=0.019). No significant association was found between sleep duration and increased hair fall (χ2=3.028, p=0.387).

Conclusions Higher screen time and elevated stress levels were significantly associated with self-reported hair fall among young adults. These findings highlight the importance of lifestyle modification and stress management in maintaining hair health.