What are some common causes of baldness (alopecia)?

The answer focusing on infection, emotional stress, drugs, and male hormones provides a comprehensive view of various factors contributing to baldness, or alopecia.

Genetic predisposition, particularly in androgenetic alopecia, is strongly influenced by male hormones (androgens), which play a critical role in hair follicle miniaturization and eventual hair loss. Conditions like autoimmune disorders, such as alopecia areata, can lead to sudden patches of hair loss often triggered by stress or certain infections. Additionally, various medications, including chemotherapy drugs, can disrupt normal hair growth and lead to hair loss.

By outlining these causes, this answer emphasizes the multifaceted nature of baldness, recognizing that it is not solely a result of genetics but can also involve environmental and physiological factors. This creates a broader understanding of how different elements can interact to affect hair health and growth.