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Determination of Reproductive Competence by Confirming Pubertal Onset and Performing a Fertility Assay in Mice and Rats
Published on: October 13, 2018
The timing of puberty: is it changing? Does it matter?
1Section of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. ewalvoor@iupui.edu
Summary
The age of puberty may not be decreasing as previously thought, with new data challenging earlier conclusions. Excessive weight gain and environmental factors like endocrine disruptors may influence pubertal timing and lead to long-term health issues.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric endocrinology
- Reproductive health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The secular trend of decreasing age of puberty is debated.
- Classical data may not fully represent current trends.
- New epidemiologic studies are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on the secular trend of pubertal timing.
- To analyze the impact of weight gain and obesity on puberty.
- To examine causes and consequences of early puberty.
Main Methods:
- Review of classical and recent large epidemiologic studies.
- Detailed discussion of weight gain and obesity effects.
- Examination of potential environmental and stress-related factors.
Main Results:
- New data challenge prior conclusions on pubertal timing trends.
- Obesity has opposing effects on pubertal timing in girls and boys.
- Early puberty is linked to various health risks.
Conclusions:
- The continuation of the secular trend of decreasing pubertal age is uncertain.
- Excessive weight gain and environmental factors are key considerations.
- Early puberty poses significant long-term health risks, including reproductive cancers and metabolic syndrome.
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