Early puberty, defined by Mayoclinic as the onset of puberty before the age of 8 in girls or 9 in boys, can significantly affect adult height. Girls typically show initial signs like breast development, followed by pubic hair growth, a rapid increase in height, and the start of menstruation. In boys, indicators include hair growth, voice deepening, and increased muscle mass.

During its initial stages, sex hormones stimulate bone growth, leading to children experiencing a growth spurt. However, these same hormones also accelerate the ossification of growth plates at the ends of bones. Once these growth plates close, bones can no longer lengthen. This means that while children might appear taller than their peers early on, their final adult height may be shorter than their genetic potential.

Timely intervention is crucial to mitigate the health impacts of early puberty. Early detection allows doctors to pinpoint the cause, assess the progression, and implement appropriate treatment to extend the period of height development. Children also receive vital psychological support, health education, and age-appropriate sex education. Conversely, late diagnosis can lead to premature closure of growth plates, significantly reducing treatment effectiveness.

Beyond medical treatment, parents play a vital role in managing early puberty, according to Times of India. They should help children maintain a healthy weight, establish a balanced diet, encourage regular physical activity, and ensure adequate sleep. Parents must avoid giving children products advertised for height enhancement or those containing hormones without a doctor's prescription.

Healthy eating helps prevent early puberty. Photo: Bao Bao

Several factors can elevate the risk of early puberty. These include a family history of early puberty, being overweight or obese, and certain medical conditions affecting the brain, pituitary gland, or adrenal glands. Prolonged exposure to hormone-containing products also contributes to this risk.

Children experiencing early puberty may feel confused, self-conscious, or inferior due to physical changes that differ from their peers. Parents can alleviate this psychological pressure by providing guidance, clear explanations, and fostering an open environment where children feel comfortable discussing their bodily changes.

By Le Nguyen (Compiled)