Premature Grey Hair May Signal Underlying Health Problems, Experts Warn

Premature greying of hair is becoming increasingly common among children and young adults. While many people attribute it to stress, pollution, or poor-quality water, medical experts say early greying can sometimes be a warning sign of underlying health conditions that require timely medical evaluation.

Hair gets its natural color from **melanin**, the pigment produced by specialized cells in the body. When melanin production decreases or is disrupted, hair gradually loses its color and turns grey. Experts advise that noticeable greying at a young age should not be ignored.

Health specialists note that several lifestyle and environmental factors may contribute to premature greying, particularly in countries like Pakistan. These include extreme heat, air pollution, dust, poor nutrition, frequent consumption of fast food, inadequate sleep, and deficiencies of essential nutrients such as **vitamin D** and **iron**.

Medical experts identify several health conditions that may accelerate premature greying:

* **Vitamin B12 deficiency:** Low levels of vitamin B12 can weaken hair follicles and reduce pigment production. It may also cause fatigue, weakness, and dizziness.
* **Thyroid disorders:** Both overactive and underactive thyroid function can lead to hair loss and premature greying.
* **Iron-deficiency anemia:** A lack of iron reduces oxygen and nutrient supply to hair follicles, affecting hair health and pigmentation.
* Vitiligo: This condition causes the loss of skin pigment and can also affect the scalp, leading to white hair in the affected areas.
* **Chronic stress:** Long-term psychological stress may damage pigment-producing cells in hair follicles, contributing to early greying.

Experts recommend seeking medical advice if hair turns grey suddenly at a young age, especially if it is accompanied by symptoms such as persistent fatigue, severe weakness, or unexplained weight loss or gain. Early medical assessment can help identify and treat any underlying health condition.