On June 30, 2010, Nature Journal, an interdisciplinary journal of science, published an article that unveils the most exciting genetic research on alopecia areata to date. Led by the National Alopecia Areata Foundation Scientific Advisory Council member Dr. Angela Christiano, and using cases from the National Alopecia Areata Registry, a team of investigators from Columbia University Medical Center have found eight genes that contribute to alopecia areata, one of which has a possible role in the onset of the disease.

Alopecia (AL-OH-PEE-SHA) areata (AIR-EE-AH-TAH) is an autoimmune skin disease that may result in total or partial loss of hair.

Who do you think is the most notable bald celebrity?

Zach Lund has now shaved his head- the result of both personal choice and of genetics. His baldness was once a source of anxiety for him and it is now a symbol of his determination. Read about him and his experiences in the NY Times link below….  All the best Zach!

- Lee

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/19/sports/olympics/19skeleton.html

1. Prepare to buy plenty of sunblock because your head will burn QUICK!

2. Protect your head- this could mean wearing a hat at the gym so you don’t get banged up from hanging weights or pull-up bars. You also will need a hat if you are doing yard work and have low-lying tree/bush branches….