Prostatecancer cells can make their own androgens to activate the androgen receptor, and treatments like abiraterone may increase this ability, suggesting new therapies should target the entire steroid-making pathway.
Androgenic alopecia (AGA) might have evolved to reduce prostatecancer risk by increasing UV exposure to the scalp, but this theory is debated. Treatments like minoxidil and finasteride are used for AGA, though the exact causes and evolutionary reasons for hair loss are unclear.
Finasteride may affect prostate sensation and size, with some users reporting easier urination. Concerns exist about prostate shrinkage even at lower doses.
Dutasteride may cause chronic infertility by reducing semen volume and motility, with concerns about irreversible prostate fibrosis. Users consider switching to finasteride or using treatments like minoxidil and microneedling, weighing hair preservation against fertility.
A dermatologist advised a patient to stop taking finasteride (fin) after turning 40 due to potential risk of aggressive prostatecancer. The patient and others in the conversation debated this advice, discussing the relationship between finasteride, prostatecancer, and hair loss, and considering alternatives like topical finasteride.
Nutrafol helps improve hair thickness and hairline but may have potential health risks like liver damage and increased prostatecancer risk. The user plans to continue Nutrafol at a lower dosage while managing seborrheic dermatitis and considers future use of topical finasteride, minoxidil, rosemary oil, and microneedling.