Las Palmas, March 31, 2026. - In recent years, healthcare professionals in Europe have been observing a trend that had previously been described in the United States. It is a progressive advance in the age of onset of puberty, especially in girls. Available studies estimate that, from the end of the 1970s until 2013, puberty has advanced approximately three months for each decade, which confirms that this is a gradual and sustained process over time.
César Herrera Molina, Hospiten Roca Pediatrician
To understand this phenomenon it is useful to remember when puberty is considered to begin from a clinical point of view. In girls, the first sign is the appearance of the bilateral mammary bud, known as telarche. In boys, the onset is established when the testicular volume reaches or exceeds 4 cubic centimeters. Until a few years ago it was assumed that puberty could not begin before the age of 8 in girls and 9 in boys. But these data come from older studies and it is now recognized that the age of normal onset is more variable, so these cases are no longer considered so unusual.
Interpretation of this advance should be made with caution. It is important to avoid social alarm, but also to avoid automatic normalization of any change in pubertal rhythm. In most cases it is a variant within normality. The role of the pediatric endocrinologist is to identify which children need further study and which can benefit, when indicated, from treatments aimed at modulating the rhythm of puberty.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant increase in consultations related to precocious puberty. This increase has been linked to several factors acting simultaneously during that period, such as increased overweight and obesity, increased screen use, sleep disturbances, and increased emotional stress. Among these, obesity is the most relevant factor. Fat tissue has active hormonal functions and, when in excess, can favor the early activation of the mechanisms that trigger puberty.
In this context, dietary factors and exposure to endocrine disruptors are also relevant. These are chemicals that can interfere with the hormonal system and to which we are exposed in everyday life through food, plastic packaging, cosmetic products and other commonly used materials. Among the best known examples are phthalates and bisphenol A.
Scientific evidence shows associations between exposure to these compounds and pubertal advancement, although it is not always possible to establish a direct causal relationship. Even so, it is reasonable to adopt prudent measures, such as reducing the use of plastics in contact with food, limiting the consumption of ultra-processed and canned products, and promoting regulatory policies that restrict the presence of these substances in products intended for children.
Obesity and precocious puberty
Adipose tissue is an active hormonal tissue. On the one hand, it transmits to the organism a signal of energy sufficiency necessary to initiate puberty. However, when there is an excess of body fat, a proinflammatory state is generated that can alter the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and favor an earlier onset of puberty. In addition, adipose tissue contributes to the peripheral production of sex hormones.
This does not mean that all children with obesity develop precocious puberty, but it does mean that the risk is higher. Preventive measures based on a healthy diet, regular physical activity, limiting screen time and adequate rest not only contribute to reducing the risk of precocious puberty, but also improve the overall health of the child.
Long-term consequences and professional action
In the face of early puberty, it is essential not to fall into social alarm. In many cases there is a genetic predisposition in the family combined with environmental factors, without this implying the presence of a pathology. Secondary causes of precocious puberty are less frequent, although they should be ruled out in certain clinical contexts to ensure an adequate diagnosis.
Well-child check-ups play a key role in this process. Growth, weight and the appearance of the first signs of puberty are systematically monitored. When doubts arise, an assessment by a pediatric endocrinologist allows each case to be studied individually and to decide whether it is necessary to extend the follow-up or to carry out complementary tests. From the first contact with the family, the transmission of reassurance and clear information is essential.
In some patients, precocious puberty may be associated with an increased risk of long-term metabolic comorbidities, such as obesity or insulin resistance. An increased likelihood of earlier sexual behaviors and mood disturbances, in many cases related to the difference between physical maturation and emotional development, has also been described. These associations are not inevitable, but they do justify adequate clinical and psychosocial follow-up.
In this sense, continuous training of healthcare professionals is key to avoid the transmission of erroneous or alarmist messages. Likewise, from the family point of view, daily observation is fundamental. These assessments should always be made in the overall context of the child's growth and development, taking into account the child's previous evolution and individual characteristics.
The monitoring of precocious puberty does not depend on a single professional, but on a coordinated approach. The pediatric endocrinologist is responsible for assessing hormonal development and its evolution, while the primary care pediatrician plays an essential role in the early detection of the first signs. In addition to this follow-up, psychological support is provided when necessary, especially in the face of the emotional impact that early physical maturation can generate, as well as the role of educators in the school environment. This coordination makes it possible to offer a more complete, close and effective care, adapted to the needs of each child.
This article is an English translation generated with AI from the original Spanish content. While we review content for clarity, the information is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment.