Climate Change impact in Age of Menarche

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

References

1. The Hindu | Climate change impacting when girls get their period
2. OC Academy | How Humidity and Heat Impact Girls’ First Periods