Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Health
Why in news?
Recently, a study was published, it highlights how climatic factors influence the age of menstruation in girls across the world, especially India.
- The study specifically highlights how climatic factors profoundly influence the age at which girls in India experience their first menstrual period.
Age of Menarche or a girl's first menstrual period, typically occurs between ages 9 and 15, with the average age varying by location and population.
- Data collected from - The researchers analyzed the data gathered through 'Demographic and Health Surveys' (DHS) during 1992-93 and 2019-21, along with climate data from NASA.
- Published in - (Public Library of Science) PLOS Global Public Health, analyzed data from over 68,000 responses across India.
- Findings – Influencing factors - It shows changing menarcheal ages influenced by
- Environmental factors like climate change and air pollution,
- Demographic factor and socio-economic factors such as obesity and education levels.
- Humidity & Temperature - Higher humidity linked with advances the age of menstruation and higher temperatures with a delayed one.
- Situation in India - Most Indian states are indeed observing an earlier onset of menarche among girls except Maharashtra, where girls experienced a delayed onset of menstruation.
- In Maharashtra - Higher temperatures may induce physiological stress, disrupt hormonal regulation and thereby delay the onset of puberty.
- Higher education could be linked with an earlier menarche, indicating demographic influences.
- Measures to overcome the issue -
- Comprehensive public health interventions and collaborative efforts across various sectors are vital to address the health impacts.
- Public health initiatives must prioritize improved nutrition, better healthcare access, and robust educational programs.
Quick fact
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Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) Program
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- A major international initiative that collected, analyzed, and disseminated accurate and representative data on population, health, HIV, and nutrition.
- Over 90 low- and middle-income countries.
- It is conducted for every 5 years once.
- Implemented by - The consulting firm ICF International.
- Funded by - United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
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References
- The Hindu | Climate change impacting when girls get their period
- OC Academy | How Humidity and Heat Impact Girls’ First Periods
