Question
A 9-year-old girl is 140 centimeters tall and weighs 43 kilograms. She started developing breasts at the age of 8 and has gained weight and grown taller rapidly over the past year. The doctor recently diagnosed her with precocious puberty. Do children with precocious puberty need treatment?
Answer
Precocious puberty is a common endocrine disorder in children. If a girl shows signs of secondary sexual characteristics before the age of 8 or experiences her first menstrual period before 10, it falls under the category of precocious puberty. Affected children usually experience accelerated growth in height and weight. Based on the description, the girl indeed shows signs of precocious puberty, and it is recommended to undergo a detailed endocrine hormone test. It is advised to avoid consuming foods and medications containing hormones, as well as removing related triggers. If necessary, consider medication treatment. It is suggested to avoid consuming foods rich in plant estrogens such as soybeans, honey, and royal jelly, as they may accelerate the development of precocious puberty.