Finding the triggers for male pattern baldness allows the research into cures to stop the triggers from activating. It also raises the possibility of testing for male pattern baldness. This will allow you to see at an early age whether you have these genes, therefore letting you know whether you will suffer from baldness in the future.

If a man tests positive for a particular high risk genetic variant then he has about a 70% chance of going bald. Conversely, if he  tests negative then he has about a 70% chance of not going bald.

Once male pattern baldness becomes visible it usually means that a man has already lost a significant portion (up to 50%) of their hair already. As medications that combat hair loss are the most effective at stabilizing and reducing hair loss, rather than promoting hair re-growth, the earlier that the likelihood of suffering male pattern baldness is established, the better the chances are of saving your hair.

The test involves collecting a genetic sample via a cheek swab, and the test costs about $150.