The influence of body mass index and socioeconomic status on pubertal development

Abstract

Puberty is regulated by complex genetic and hormonal mechanisms and also influenced by various individual and environmental factors. Body mass index (a surrogate marker for nutritional status) and socioeconomical status are shown in many studies to have significant impact on pubertal timing. The increase of obesity in children and adolescents has become a major public health concern worldwide. Studies show that obesity is associated with sexual maturation in children and adolescents. Although the causal direction of this association remains controversial, longitudinal studies suggest that increase in body mass index precedes the onset of early puberty in girls. In developing countries, later age of menarche is attributed to lower socioeconomic conditions. Effect of socioeconomical status on puberty in developing and developed countries seem to be opposite and most likely secondary to changes in body mass index.