OBESITY, diet, and endocrine disruptors act as accelerators on normal timing, while genetic causes are more direct — an intrinsic ‘switch’ that cannot be modified, says an expert.
According to Prince Court Medical Centre Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist Dr Maiza Tusimin, genetics play a strong role in true central precocious puberty.
“Mutations in genes like makorin ring finger protein 3 (MKRN3) and delta-like-non-canonical Notch ligand 1 (DLK1) can directly trigger early Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal axis (HPG) activation, often in familial cases,” she explained.
She added that unlike environmental or lifestyle factors such as obesity, diet and endocrine disruptors, which act as accelerators on normal puberty timing.
Dr Maiza said that genetic causes are more direct, functioning as intrinsic “switches” that override the body’s normal control mechanisms.
“For families with a genetic predisposition, the focus should be on early monitoring, supportive care and a holistic approach rather than prevention, since the genetic ‘switch’ cannot be modified,” she said.
What parents can do
Dr Maiza advised that parents and healthcare providers take proactive but calm steps to manage early development.
“Parents should track growth and pubertal signs closely so any early activation is detected quickly,” she said.
She recommended bone age and hormonal testing to guide whether medical intervention is needed.
“In some cases, GnRH analogues, medications that delay puberty progression can be considered to help preserve final adult height and reduce complications,” she shared.
Beyond medical care, Dr Maiza emphasised the need to support emotional well-being.
“Early puberty often brings psychosocial stress,” she said, adding that simple lifestyle choices such as maintaining a balanced diet, encouraging physical activity and avoiding obesity can help prevent additional risks.
When lifestyle fuels early puberty
While genetic causes are fixed, environmental factors still play a significant role in accelerating puberty in children who are otherwise healthy.
“Precocious puberty in girls is influenced by many factors, but the most consistent evidence points to childhood obesity and nutrition rather than chemicals alone,” Dr Maiza said.
She noted that while studies suggest endocrine-disrupting chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates may contribute, the science is “still evolving and not conclusive.”
Photo for illustrative purposes only. – Photo edited in CANVA
Her advice to parents: don’t panic or make drastic lifestyle changes.
“Parents don’t need to overhaul their lives. Instead, focus on what’s proven like maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and activity and practising simple precautions such as limiting plastic use with hot foods and washing fruits and vegetables,” she advised.
She added that regular medical check-ups remain key for ensuring early detection and managing any underlying issues.
“Most importantly, regular check-ups allow doctors to track growth and rule out rare but serious causes, ensuring children are supported without unnecessary fear,” she reminded.
Growing up too fast and its hidden costs
Dr Maiza explained that early puberty affects far more than appearance.
“When a girl enters puberty earlier than average, her body starts producing oestrogen sooner, which speeds up both growth and bone maturation,” she said.
She emphasised that at first, these girls often look taller than their peers because their growth spurt comes earlier.
“But the catch is that oestrogen also causes the growth plates in the bones to close earlier than normal,” she added.
That means while they appear taller during childhood, Dr Maiza said, adding that they may actually end up shorter as adults.
“From my perspective as a gynaecologist, this matters not just for stature but also for overall health and confidence,” she said.
She highlighted that beyond physical effects, early puberty can also impact mental health, bringing challenges such as low self-esteem, social anxiety and difficulty fitting in among peers who are still in earlier stages of development.
Dr Maiza’s message is clear: while genetics can’t be changed, awareness, support, and healthy daily habits can make a world of difference.