Childhood obesity and central precocious puberty.

Abstract

Central precocious puberty (CPP) is an endocrine disorder in children caused by the early activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPGA), leading to elevated gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which triggers the development of gonads and the secretion of sex hormones. This eventually results in the development of internal and external genitalia and secondary sexual characteristics. CPP significantly affects the physical and mental health of children and may increase the risk of various adult diseases. The influencing factors and mechanisms of CPP are a central focus of research, and its prevention and treatment remain challenging. Childhood obesity is an important risk factor for CPP, with a complex relationship influenced by endocrine-disrupting chemicals, genetic factors, and epigenetic regulation. The link between the two is primarily related to the regulation of HPGA function by nutritional and metabolic signals. Exploring the relationship between childhood obesity and CPP, along with the potential mechanisms by which obesity induces CPP, can provide theoretical references for identifying new therapeutic targets.