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The link between obesity and puberty: what is new?
Alyssa Huang1, Christian L Roth1,2
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington.
Current Opinion in Pediatrics
|June 26, 2021
Summary
Recent research indicates increased body fat is linked to earlier puberty in both boys and girls. This review explores genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors influencing pubertal timing and its health consequences.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Reproductive Health
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Pubertal timing is influenced by a complex interplay of factors.
- Increasing rates of childhood obesity are a growing public health concern.
- Early puberty has been associated with adverse long-term health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on pubertal trends in boys and girls.
- To evaluate genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors affecting pubertal timing.
- To understand the relationship between obesity and early pubertal onset.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific studies.
- Analysis of longitudinal studies on adiposity and pubertal timing.
- Synthesis of findings on genetic, epigenetic, and environmental influences.
Main Results:
- Increased adiposity is linked to earlier puberty in both girls and boys.
- Novel pathways reveal connections between nutrition, obesity, and puberty.
- Genetic/epigenetic variants, environmental exposures, and gut microbiota are implicated.
Conclusions:
- Obesity is a significant factor in earlier pubertal onset for both sexes.
- Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for addressing health risks.
- Early puberty is associated with increased risks of chronic diseases and adverse outcomes.
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