Congenital disorders
Why Indian Teenagers Are Sexually Maturing Way Before Their Age
Nov
In India, 10.4 per cent children aged 8-13 exhibit signs of early puberty, surpassing the global average of 5 per cent
New DELHI: Precocious or early puberty happens when girls and boys begin a spurt in growth – sexual and physical features of an adult. Experts believe that precocious puberty begins much earlier than usual — before age 8 in girls and 9 in boys.
Puberty marks the onset of the development of secondary sexual characteristics like breast buds, pubic hair, or menstruation before the expected age.
According to a recent study conducted by the Indian Institute of Medical Research, Indian children are now attaining puberty at a much earlier age than normal. The study revealed that 10.4 per cent of children, predominantly aged 8-13, exhibited signs of early puberty, surpassing the global average of 5 per cent.
This high incidence underscores the urgent need for further research and effective intervention strategies to address the escalating issue of early puberty in India, according to the researchers.
Studies say, that in your child’s brain, their hypothalamus releases hormones that cause their pituitary gland to release hormones called gonadotropins, which stimulate the growth of the sex glands. In boys, these glands are testicles, which release testosterone. In girls, they are the ovaries, which release estrogen.
According to ICMR statistics, at least 13 million children in India are experiencing early puberty, which doctors say can impact physical development, leading to premature bone maturation and shorter final adult height.
Also, emotional and social challenges like low self-esteem and anxiety can significantly affect children’s well-being.
The study has also identified several emotional challenges faced by children in classes 5-9 experiencing early puberty. These include increasing cases of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
According to doctors, the premature physical changes associated with early puberty can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and social isolation, contributing to emotional distress as well.
Emotional upheavals can also disrupt peer relationships.
What causes precocious puberty?
Precocious puberty has different causes depending on its type, which includes:
- Physical injuries like brain trauma
- Brain tumours
- Infections
- Brain abnormalities
- Radiation treatment due to cancer
Issues with your child’s reproductive organs or adrenal glands cause peripheral precocious puberty. Causes may include:
- Tumours in the ovaries and glands
- Genetic conditions like McCune-Albright syndrome, a disorder which affects the bones, skin, and several hormone-producing tissues
- Severe hypothyroidism
- Adrenal gland disorders like congenital adrenal hyperplasia
According to doctors many times, constant exposure to hormones in creams, medications, or supplements containing estrogen, testosterone, or androgen can also cause precocious puberty.
Researchers have also linked a higher body mass index or BMI to early breast development. Eating a lot of processed, high-fat foods may cause early puberty.
Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms of precocious puberty in both sexes include:
- Acne
- Body odour
- Sudden growth spurt
- Breast development in girls
- Menstruation
- Pubic and underarm hair
- A deepening voice
- Facial hair
- Enlargement of the penis and testicles.
- Muscle development
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
