{
  "id": 10978797,
  "title": "Alopecia areata patients share their journeys to regaining self-esteem",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/30/alopecia-areata-patients-share-their-journeys-to-regaining-self-esteem",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-09-30T14:58:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Agencia Brasil",
    "slug": "agencia-brasil",
    "url": "https://agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br/en/saude/noticia/2026-09/alopecia-areata-patients-share-their-journeys-regaining-self-esteem"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Dr. Enilde Borges Costa, a dermatologist with the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, defines alopecia areata as an unpredictable autoimmune disease that affects about two percent of the world’s population. The disorder causes the body to attack hair follicles, resulting in episodes of hair loss that can occur at any stage of life. These episodes often follow a cyclical pattern, with hair growth followed by new hair loss. Dr. Costa explained that the body attacks the hair follicle, preventing healthy hair growth. Alopecia areata can manifest in three ways: small areas of hair loss on the scalp, full scalp hair loss, or complete body hair loss. Diagnosis is made through a clinical exam of the hairless areas, as there are no laboratory or imaging tests available. Emotional issues related to alopecia are common, and the condition has a genetic component. Although not considered a psychosomatic disorder, stress or other triggers can initiate the condition. The first doctor Beatriz Santos, a book editor who has lived with alopecia areata since 2008, encountered suggested emotional causes for her hair loss. In response, she launched the Alopecia Areata Support Group (AAGAP), providing emotional support for new patients. Dr. Costa collaborates with AAGAP, offering support and guidance.",
  "summary": "An unpredictable disease – that is how Dr. Enilde Borges Costa, a dermatologist with the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD), defines alopecia areata. During the month dedicated to this disease – which affects about two percent of the world’s population , according to SBD – Agência Brasil shares stories of patients living with hair loss. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease characterized…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}