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Early Puberty

Early Puberty


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Several issues in kids' lives - including their weight - may affect when they go through puberty. Hi, I'm Dr. Cindy Haines, host of HealthDay TV. Puberty - the time when kids start to become sexually mature - comes at an earlier age than it did 100 years ago, according to a new article published in the Journal of Adolescent Health. According to the article, obesity is associated with earlier puberty in girls. In several studies, higher body mass index, higher body fat, or excessive weight gain in young girls were linked to earlier puberty or the start of menstruation. In boys, however, obesity may be linked to later puberty. Girls who have stressful situations in the home may also begin menstruation earlier.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, parents may want to talk to a doctor if their kids start showing signs of puberty before the age of 7 or 8 in girls or the age of 9 in boys. Checking with a doctor may also be a good idea if you're concerned about puberty beginning late.
IÕm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV, with the news that doctors are reading; health news that matters to you.

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