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Effects of obesity on human sexual development
Isabel V Wagner1, Mathew A Sabin, Roland W Pfäffle
1Leipzig University Medical Center, IFB Adiposity Diseases, Stefanstraße 9c, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany.
Nature Reviews. Endocrinology
|February 1, 2012
Summary
Childhood obesity is linked to earlier puberty, especially in girls, though the relationship in boys is complex. Understanding this connection is crucial for managing overweight and obesity in children and adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Developmental Biology
- Public Health
Background:
- Puberty is a critical developmental stage with lasting health implications.
- Historical trends show earlier puberty linked to improved nutrition.
- The current childhood obesity pandemic necessitates re-examining the link between body composition and pubertal timing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on the relationship between childhood adiposity and pubertal timing.
- To highlight inconsistencies and identify areas for future research in this field.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
- Evidence from studies investigating body composition, body mass index (BMI), and pubertal development was considered.
Main Results:
- Increased body mass index (BMI) and rapid early weight gain are associated with advanced puberty, particularly in girls.
- While most studies link childhood obesity to earlier puberty in boys, a subset experiences delayed puberty.
- Central fat deposition may be associated with earlier pubertal onset.
Conclusions:
- Pubertal status requires careful consideration when classifying childhood overweight and obesity.
- Leptin, adipocytokines, gut peptides, genetics, and environmental factors like endocrine disruptors are potential mediators linking adiposity and pubertal timing.
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