There is a genetic component to alopecia areata, which means that heredity plays a role. In one out of five persons with alopecia areata, someone else in the family also has it. Those who develop alopecia areata for the first time after the age of thirty are less likely to have another family member with it. Those who develop their first patch of alopecia areata before the age of thirty are more likely to have other family members with it. Because of these truths, NAAF has focused a lot of its research into investigating the genetics of alopecia areata in hopes of determining what role genetics truly play in alopecia areata, including uncovering the mysteries of who is most susceptible and why.

Foundation of Genetic Research and Alopecia Areata
Genetic Analysis
Mouse Model Genetics
Susceptibility Genes and White Blood Cells