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A continuous decline in menarcheal age in Denmark.
A W Olesen1, B Jeune, J L Boldsen
1Epidemiology, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense University. awo@med.ou.dk
Annals of Human Biology
|August 15, 2000
Summary
Mean menarcheal age is declining again in Denmark for women born between 1964-1973. However, some groups, like textile workers, still experience delayed menarche, suggesting potential for further declines.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Epidemiology
- Human Biology
Background:
- A trend of earlier age at menarche has been observed in North European countries.
- This trend experienced a halt in recent decades.
- Understanding current trends in menarcheal age is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the recent trend of mean menarcheal age in a large Danish population.
- To identify if the halt in declining menarcheal age is over in Denmark.
- To examine potential group-specific variations in menarcheal age.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of data from six distinct samples.
- Inclusion of 42,784 women in the study.
- Analysis of birth cohorts from 1939 to 1973.
Main Results:
- A continuous decline in mean menarcheal age was observed for women born between 1964-1973 in Denmark.
- A sample of textile workers (born 1939-1968) showed a mean menarcheal age one year higher than the general trend.
- This indicates persistent delays in menarche for specific demographic groups.
Conclusions:
- The trend towards earlier menarche has resumed in the Danish population.
- Delayed menarche persists in certain subgroups, notably textile workers.
- Future declines in mean menarcheal age are possible.