1
|
Zhang S, Luo Q, Meng R, Yan J, Wu Y, Huang H. Long-term health risk of offspring born from assisted reproductive technologies. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:527-550. [PMID: 38146031 PMCID: PMC10957847 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02988-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the world's first in vitro fertilization baby was born in 1978, there have been more than 8 million children conceived through assisted reproductive technologies (ART) worldwide, and a significant proportion of them have reached puberty or young adulthood. Many studies have found that ART increases the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, small size for gestational age, perinatal mortality, and congenital anomalies. However, data regarding the long-term outcomes of ART offspring are limited. According to the developmental origins of health and disease theory, adverse environments during early life stages may induce adaptive changes and subsequently result in an increased risk of diseases in later life. Increasing evidence also suggests that ART offspring are predisposed to an increased risk of non-communicable diseases, such as malignancies, asthma, obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. In this review, we summarize the risks for long-term health in ART offspring, discuss the underlying mechanisms, including underlying parental infertility, epigenetic alterations, non-physiological hormone levels, and placental dysfunction, and propose potential strategies to optimize the management of ART and health care of parents and children to eliminate the associated risks. Further ongoing follow-up and research are warranted to determine the effects of ART on the long-term health of ART offspring in later life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siwei Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qinyu Luo
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Renyu Meng
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jing Yan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yanting Wu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Research Unit of Embryo Original Diseases (No. 2019RU056), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hefeng Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Research Unit of Embryo Original Diseases (No. 2019RU056), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Influence of Childhood Adversity and Infection on Timing of Menarche in a Multiethnic Sample of Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18084080. [PMID: 33924338 PMCID: PMC8070127 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Childhood adversities (CAs) and infections may affect the timing of reproductive development. We examined the associations of indicators of CAs and exposure to tonsillitis and infectious mononucleosis (mono) with age at menarche. A multiethnic cohort of 400 women (ages 40–64 years) reported exposure to parental maltreatment and maladjustment during childhood and any diagnosis of tonsillitis and/or mono; infections primarily acquired in early life and adolescence, respectively. We used linear and relative risk regression models to examine the associations of indicators of CAs individually and cumulatively, and history of tonsillitis/mono with an average age at menarche and early onset of menarche (<12 years of age). In multivariable models, histories of mental illness in the household (RR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.01–2.06), and tonsillitis diagnosis (RR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.20–2.33) were associated with early menarche (<12 years), and with an earlier average age at menarche by 7.1 months (95% CI: −1.15, −0.02) and 8.8 months (95% CI: −1.26, −0.20), respectively. Other adversities indicators, cumulative adversities, and mono were not statistically associated with menarcheal timing. These findings provided some support for the growing evidence that early life experiences may influence the reproductive development in girls.
Collapse
|
3
|
Pampanini V, Jahnukainen K, Sahlin L, Germani D, Puglianiello A, Cianfarani S, Söder O. Impact of uteroplacental insufficiency on ovarian follicular pool in the rat. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:10. [PMID: 30630482 PMCID: PMC6329190 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0453-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A low oxygen supply to the fetus causes intrauterine growth restriction and can affect gonadal development of the offspring, having a potential impact on fertility. We investigated histology and gene expression in the postnatal rat ovary after fetal hypoxia induced by uterine artery ligation. METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats underwent uterine artery ligation at day 19 of gestation. Offspring were sacrificed at 5, 20 and 40 days post-partum. Follicles were counted and classified in hematoxylin-eosin stained sections. Gene expression of 90 genes was analyzed by TaqMan® Low Density Array. RESULTS A significantly lower number of total and primordial follicles was detected in 20 days post-partum intrauterine growth restricted animals. Follicle density was not different at 40 days post-partum, suggesting that compensatory mechanisms occurred during the pre-pubertal window. Uterine artery ligation modified the expression of 24 genes involved in different cellular functions, among which proliferation, apoptosis and metabolism. CONCLUSION Ovarian follicle pool was affected by fetal hypoxia in early life, but this effect did not persist in puberty. Genes involved in cellular processes were affected at all ages, potentially implying long-term genetic alterations. Further analyses are needed to elucidate later effects of fetal hypoxia on ovarian function and fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pampanini
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Visionsgatan 4; J9:30, SE-171 64, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Kirsi Jahnukainen
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Visionsgatan 4; J9:30, SE-171 64, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Sahlin
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Visionsgatan 4; J9:30, SE-171 64, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniela Germani
- Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Cianfarani
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Visionsgatan 4; J9:30, SE-171 64, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
- Dipartimento Pediatrico Universitario Ospedaliero "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital - Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Olle Söder
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Visionsgatan 4; J9:30, SE-171 64, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Brar PC, Dingle E, Ovadia D, Pivo S, Prasad V, David R. Interpretation of androgen and anti-Mullerian hormone profiles in a Hispanic cohort of 5- to 8-year-old girls with premature adrenarche. Ann Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2018; 23:210-214. [PMID: 30599482 PMCID: PMC6312917 DOI: 10.6065/apem.2018.23.4.210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Premature adrenarche (PA) often leads to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Higher anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels are reported in PCOS. We studied the androgen profile and AMH profiles in Hispanic girls with PA (aged 5-8 years) and age and body mass index (BMI) matched controls. METHODS Retrospective review of electronic medical records of girls who met the inclusion criteria for premature adrenarche were done. RESULTS PA girls (n=76) were matched to control girls (n=12) for age (mean±standard deviation) (6.7±1 years vs. 6.2±1.3 years) and BMI (20±10 kg/m2 vs. 17.8±2.7 kg/m2). Dehydroepiandrostenedione sulfate (63.3±51.3 μg/dL vs. 29.8±17.3 μg/dL, P<0.001) and testosterone levels (11.4±4.8 ng/dL vs. 8.2±2.9 ng/dL, P=0.001) were significantly higher in the PA group than controls. AMH values (<14 years: reference range, 0.49-3.15 ng/mL) were 3.2±2.2 ng/mL vs. 4.6± 3.2 ng/mL respectively in the PA and control groups and were not different (P=0.4). AMH did not show a correlation with bone age (P=0.1), and testosterone (P=0.9) in the PA group. 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels (17-OHP ng/dL) were 39.5±30.5 ng/dL vs. 36.8±19.8 ng/dL in PA versus control girls. The concentration of 17-OHP was not statistically different between the control and PA groups. CONCLUSION Higher AMH was not observed in PA girls and no correlation with BA and androgen levels was observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Preneet Cheema Brar
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA,Address for correspondence: Preneet Cheema Brar, MD Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, 160 East 3nd street, L3, New York 10016, New York, USA Tel: +1-212-263-5940 Fax: +1-212-263-5808 E-mail:
| | - Elena Dingle
- Department of Pediatrics, Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Daniela Ovadia
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sarah Pivo
- Deparment of Surgery, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Veeramac Prasad
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Raphael David
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pampanini V, Germani D, Puglianiello A, Stukenborg JB, Reda A, Savchuk I, Kjartansdóttir KR, Cianfarani S, Söder O. Impact of uteroplacental insufficiency on postnatal rat male gonad. J Endocrinol 2017; 232:247-257. [PMID: 27885054 PMCID: PMC5184772 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal events such as intrauterine growth restriction can affect gonadal development of the offspring and have an impact on reproductive health. To investigate the effects of intrauterine growth restriction induced by uterine artery ligation on the postnatal rat testis. Pregnant rats underwent uterine artery ligation at day 19 of gestation. Offspring were killed at 5, 20 and 40 days post-partum (dpp). At killing, one gonad was snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen and processed for RNA and steroid extraction. The other gonad was formalin-fixed for histology. Gene expression was analyzed by TaqMan Low-Density Array. Intratesticular testosterone, estradiol and serum gonadotrophins were measured. Thirty genes were dysregulated in intrauterine growth-restricted rats compared to controls, among which markers of Sertoli cell and Leydig cell function, cell metabolism and growth factors. Testis weights were significantly reduced at 5 and 20 dpp in intrauterine growth-restricted rats and caught-up by 40 dpp Accordingly, Sertoli cell number was significantly lower in 5 dpp intrauterine growth-restricted rats. At 20 dpp, intratesticular testosterone was significantly increased in intrauterine growth-restricted rats, whereas serum gonadotrophins were unchanged. IUGR altered the gene expression in the rat testes up to peripubertal age and reduced testis size and Sertoli cell number in neonatal age. Multiple mechanisms encompassing genetic changes and steroid production by the testis may be involved in the catch-up growth phase that restored testis size by 40 dpp Permanent consequences on organ function and gamete integrity cannot be excluded and deserve further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pampanini
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthPediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniela Germani
- Department of Systems MedicineTor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthPediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ahmed Reda
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthPediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iuliia Savchuk
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthPediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristín Rós Kjartansdóttir
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthPediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stefano Cianfarani
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthPediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Dipartimento Pediatrico Universitario Ospedaliero 'Bambino Gesù' Children's Hospital - Tor Vergata UniversityRome, Italy
| | - Olle Söder
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthPediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liimatta J, Utriainen P, Voutilainen R, Jääskeläinen J. Girls with a History of Premature Adrenarche Have Advanced Growth and Pubertal Development at the Age of 12 Years. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:291. [PMID: 29163361 PMCID: PMC5671637 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature adrenarche (PA) has been linked to early thelarche and menarche, but longitudinal data on growth and pubertal development after PA are insufficient. METHODS Growth and pubertal development of mostly full-term and appropriate for gestational age-born 43 PA (36 girls) and 63 control children (52 girls) were analyzed prospectively. Children examined first at the mean age of 7.6 years were reexamined at the mean age of 12.0 years. RESULTS The PA girls but not the boys were taller and had higher body mass index (BMI) than the controls. A higher proportion of the PA than control girls had reached menarche, while the same percentage of the PA and control boys were at Tanner genital stage ≥2. The PA girls with premature pubarche (PP) were taller but not heavier and had more often reached menarche by the age of 12 years than the PA girls without PP. The PA girls with menarche had lower birth length (BL) and higher prepubertal insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentrations compared with non-menarcheal PA girls. In logistic regression analyses for all girls, lower BL standard deviation score, earlier maternal menarche, and higher prepubertal IGF-1 were independently associated with menarche. CONCLUSION At 12 years of age, the PA girls had higher BMI, advanced linear growth, and accelerated pubertal development with earlier menarche than the control girls. The PA girls with PP were taller and had earlier menarche than the PA girls without PP. Lower BL and higher prepubertal IGF-1 concentration were predictive factors for menarche by the age of 12 years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jani Liimatta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
- *Correspondence: Jani Liimatta,
| | - Pauliina Utriainen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Raimo Voutilainen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jarmo Jääskeläinen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cho WK, Suh BK. Catch-up growth and catch-up fat in children born small for gestational age. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2016; 59:1-7. [PMID: 26893597 PMCID: PMC4753194 DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2016.59.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Infants born small for gestational age (SGA) are at increased risk of perinatal morbidity, persistent short stature, and metabolic alterations in later life. Recent studies have focused on the association between birth weight (BW) and later body composition. Some reports suggest that fetal nutrition, as reflected by BW, may have an inverse programing effect on abdominal adiposity later in life. This inverse association between BW and abdominal adiposity in adults may contribute to insulin resistance. Rapid weight gain during infancy in SGA children seemed to be associated with increased fat mass rather than lean mass. Early catch-up growth after SGA birth rather than SGA itself has been noted as a cardiovascular risk factor in later life. Children who are born SGA also have a predisposition to accumulation of fat mass, particularly intra-abdominal fat. It is not yet clear whether this predisposition is due to low BW itself, rapid postnatal catch-up growth, or a combination of both. In this report, we review the published literature on central fat accumulation and metabolic consequences of being SGA, as well as the currently popular research area of SGA, including growth aspects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Won Kyoung Cho
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byung-Kyu Suh
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
CONTEXT Small for gestational age infants have multifold increased risk of growth failure and adulthood disorders. Those who experience rapid catch up growth are at risk of developing metabolic syndrome, whereas those without catch up may end up with short stature. These children are also prone to an altered pubertal development. NEED AND PURPOSE Scarcity of literature, lack of published guidelines on the follow-up and management plan of children born with small for gestational age. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION Literature search in PubMed was conducted with regard to epidemiology, growth and puberty, comorbidities, its pathogenesis and management in small for gestational age, with particular relevance for developing countries. An algorithm for follow-up of these children is outlined, based on available empiric data. CONCLUSIONS Being born small for gestational age predisposes to many metabolic and pubertal disorders. Special emphasis is needed for early detection and management through early surveillance in growth clinics, and regular follow-up to prevent associated comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangita Yadav
- Department of Pediatrics, Maulana Azad Medical College and Associated Lok Nayak Hospital,New Delhi, India. Correspondence to: Dr Sangeeta Yadav, Director Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi 110 002, India.
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ovarian morphology and function during growth hormone therapy of short girls born small for gestational age. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1733-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
10
|
Belva F, Roelants M, Painter R, Bonduelle M, Devroey P, De Schepper J. Pubertal development in ICSI children. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:1156-61. [PMID: 22328555 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, information on the pubertal development of adolescents born after ICSI is scarce, since the very first cohort is only now reaching young adulthood. In this study, pubertal development at the age of 14 was characterized in a longitudinally followed cohort of ICSI-conceived teenagers and compared with that of a spontaneously conceived (SC) control group. METHODS Pubertal development was assessed by Tanner staging (breast, genital and pubic hair development) and age at menarche in 217 singleton ICSI-conceived children (116 boys, 101 girls) and 223 SC peers (115 boys, 108 girls). ICSI teenagers were part of a previously published cohort followed since birth; controls were a cross-sectional sample recruited from schools. Differences in pubertal development between ICSI and SC children were analyzed with logistic regression of current status data. RESULTS Mean age at menarche was similar in ICSI and SC girls (13.1 ± 1.2 versus 13.1 ± 1.4 years; P = 0.8). Breast developmental at the age of 14 years was less advanced in ICSI females compared with SC females, even after adjustment for demographic (age, BMI), genetic (maternal age at menarche), social (maternal educational level) and early life factors (birthweight, gestational age and maternal parity) [odds ratio (OR) 0.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.3-0.8]. After adjustment, genital development in the 14-year-old boys was comparable in the ICSI and SC groups (OR 1.1; 95% CI 0.7-1.8), pubic hair development was comparable in the ICSI and SC groups, for both males (OR 0.9; 95% CI 0.7-1.6) and females (OR 0.7; 95% CI 0.4-1.3). CONCLUSIONS We found that pubertal development, characterized by menarche, genital development in males and pubic hair development in males and females, was comparable in the ICSI and SC groups. Breast developmental was less advanced in ICSI females compared with SC peers, even after adjustment for known potential confounders. In order to confirm that progression through subsequent stages of pubertal development occurs on a timely basis in ICSI teenagers, long-term follow-up studies up to adulthood are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Belva
- Center for Medical Genetics, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Children within institutional care settings experience significant global growth suppression, which is more profound in children with a higher baseline risk of growth impairment (e.g., low birth weight [LBW] infants and children exposed to alcohol in utero). Nutritional insufficiencies as well as suppression of the growth hormone-insulin-like growth factor axis (GH-IGF-1) caused by social deprivation likely both contribute to the etiology of psychosocial growth failure within these settings. Their relative importance and the consequent clinical presentations probably relate to the age of the child. While catch-up growth in height and weight are rapid when children are placed in a more nurturing environment, many factors, particularly early progression through puberty, compromise final height. Potential for growth recovery is greatest in younger children and within more nurturing environments where catch-up in height and weight is positively correlated with caregiver sensitivity and positive regard. Growth recovery has wider implications for child well-being than size alone, because catch-up in height is a positive predictor of cognitive recovery as well. Even with growth recovery, persistent abnormalities of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system or the exacerbation of micronutrient deficiencies associated with robust catch-up growth during critical periods of development could potentially influence or be responsible for the cognitive, behavioral, and emotional sequelae of early childhood deprivation. Findings in growth-restricted infants and those children with psychosocial growth are similar, suggesting that children experiencing growth restriction within institutional settings may also share the risk of developing the metabolic syndrome in adulthood (obesity, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, heart disease). Psychosocial deprivation within any care-giving environment during early life must be viewed with as much concern as any severely debilitating childhood disease.
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Children within institutional care settings experience significant global growth suppression, which is more profound in children with a higher baseline risk of growth impairment (e.g., low birth weight [LBW] infants and children exposed to alcohol in utero). Nutritional insufficiencies as well as suppression of the growth hormone-insulin-like growth factor axis (GH-IGF-1) caused by social deprivation likely both contribute to the etiology of psychosocial growth failure within these settings. Their relative importance and the consequent clinical presentations probably relate to the age of the child. While catch-up growth in height and weight are rapid when children are placed in a more nurturing environment, many factors, particularly early progression through puberty, compromise final height. Potential for growth recovery is greatest in younger children and within more nurturing environments where catch-up in height and weight is positively correlated with caregiver sensitivity and positive regard. Growth recovery has wider implications for child well-being than size alone, because catch-up in height is a positive predictor of cognitive recovery as well. Even with growth recovery, persistent abnormalities of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system or the exacerbation of micronutrient deficiencies associated with robust catch-up growth during critical periods of development could potentially influence or be responsible for the cognitive, behavioral, and emotional sequelae of early childhood deprivation. Findings in growth-restricted infants and those children with psychosocial growth are similar, suggesting that children experiencing growth restriction within institutional settings may also share the risk of developing the metabolic syndrome in adulthood (obesity, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, heart disease). Psychosocial deprivation within any care-giving environment during early life must be viewed with as much concern as any severely debilitating childhood disease.
Collapse
|
13
|
Monteilh C, Kieszak S, Flanders WD, Maisonet M, Rubin C, Holmes AK, Heron J, Golding J, McGeehin MA, Marcus M. Timing of maturation and predictors of Tanner stage transitions in boys enrolled in a contemporary British cohort. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2011; 25:75-87. [PMID: 21133972 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3016.2010.01168.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study describes the timing of puberty in 8- to 14-year-old boys enrolled in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) and identifies factors associated with earlier achievement of advanced pubic hair stages. Women were enrolled during pregnancy and their offspring were followed prospectively. We analysed self-reported pubic hair Tanner staging collected annually. We used survival models to estimate median age of attainment of pubic hair stage >1, stage >2 and stage >3 of pubic hair development. We also constructed multivariable logistic regression models to identify factors associated with earlier achievement of pubic hair stages. Approximately 5% of the boys reported Tanner pubic hair stage >1 at age 8; 99% of boys were at stage >1 by age 14. The estimated median ages of entry into stages of pubic hair development were 11.4 years [95% confidence interval (CI) 11.3, 11.4] for stage >1, 12.7 years [95% CI 12.7, 12.8] for stage >2 and 13.5 years [95% CI 13.5, 13.6] for stage >3. Predictors of younger age at Tanner stage >1 included low birthweight, younger maternal age at delivery and being taller at age 8. Associations were found between younger age at attainment of stage >2 and gestational diabetes and taller or heavier body size at age 8. Being taller or heavier at age 8 also predicted younger age at Tanner stage >3. The results give added support to the strong influence of pre-adolescent body size on male pubertal development; the tallest and heaviest boys at 8 years achieved each stage earlier and the shortest boys later. Age at attainment of pubic hair Tanner stages in the ALSPAC cohort are similar to ages reported in other European studies that were conducted during overlapping time periods. This cohort will continue to be followed for maturational information until age 17.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Monteilh
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mariani A, Jeandel C, Paris F, Ecochard R. Puberty and pubertal growth dynamics in children with idiopathic short stature. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2011; 24:319-25. [PMID: 21823530 DOI: 10.1515/jpem.2011.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As the prognosis for final height is unfavorable for children with idiopathic short stature (ISS), we studied the pubertal growth dynamics in these children, which is a determinant factor in final height. SUBJECTS/METHODS In a retrospective cohort study, we analyzed the pubertal period, age of puberty and peripubertal growth in 50 children with ISS. RESULTS The onset of puberty occurred later. Growth rate tended to become increasingly subnormal in the prepubertal period and height was -2.45 SD at puberty onset. Growth reaccelerated at this point, which tended to correct the deviation from the mean height, but it was insufficient to obtain a normal final height. CONCLUSIONS The dynamics of growth in children with ISS showed a distinct pattern in the prepubertal and pubertal periods and puberty is significantly delayed in this population. These patterns could explain the unfavorable prognosis for children with ISS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aude Mariani
- Service de Pédiatrie 1, Centre Hopitalo-Universitaire Arnaud de Villeneuve, Montpellier, France.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wells JCK. Maternal capital and the metabolic ghetto: An evolutionary perspective on the transgenerational basis of health inequalities. Am J Hum Biol 2010; 22:1-17. [PMID: 19844897 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.20994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is particular interest in understanding socioeconomic and ethnic variability in health status. The developmental origins of disease hypothesis emphasize the importance of growth patterns across the life-course in relation to noncommunicable disease risk. The physiological components of cardiovascular risk, collectively termed the metabolic syndrome, derive in part from a disparity between the homeostatic "metabolic capacity" of vital organs and the "metabolic load" induced by large tissue masses, a rich diet and sedentary behavior. From an evolutionary perspective, the risk of such disparity is decreased by maternal physiology regulating offspring growth trajectory during gestation and lactation. Maternal capital, defined as phenotypic resources enabling investment in the offspring, allows effective buffering of the offspring from nutritional perturbations and represents the environmental niche initially occupied by the offspring. Offspring growth patterns are sensitive to the magnitude of maternal capital during early windows of plasticity. Offspring life-history strategy can then respond adaptively to further factors across the life-course, but only within the context of this initial maternal influence on growth. Maternal somatic capital is primarily gained or lost across generations, through variable rates of fetal and infant growth. I argue that the poor nutritional experience of populations subjected to colonialism resulted in a systematic loss of maternal capital, reflected in downward secular trends in stature. Accelerating the recovery of somatic capital within generations overloads metabolic capacity and exacerbates cardiovascular risk, reflected in increased disease rates in urbanizing and emigrant populations. Public health policies need to benefit metabolic capacity without exacerbating metabolic load.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan C K Wells
- Childhood Nutrition Research Centre, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kanaka-Gantenbein C, Sakka S, Chrousos GP. Assisted reproduction and its neuroendocrine impact on the offspring. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2010; 182:161-74. [PMID: 20541664 DOI: 10.1016/s0079-6123(10)82006-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have been widely used during the last three decades and progressively more children are born with the help of such methods. There is now evidence that ARTs may be associated with slight epigenetic modifications in the expression of several genes that could have a long-term impact on the health of the offspring. Also, a clear association between such techniques and genomic imprinting abnormalities has been reported. The neuroendocrine impact of ART on the offspring includes slight elevations of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), as well as increased circulating triglyceride concentrations, in children born after ART, especially in those with rapid catch-up growth in weight during early childhood. However, the postnatal growth of most children after ART is normal and no increased incidence of the full metabolic syndrome has been observed in these children and adolescents. Moreover, the pace and timing of puberty of such children is normal and no increased incidence of premature adrenarche could be discerned in ART children in the absence of restricted fetal growth. Finally, a slight modification of the set point of thyroid stimulating hormone sensitivity was observed in ART children, without an apparent impact on thyroid hormone secretion. This has been attributed to epigenetic changes. Questions remain to be answered regarding the future reproductive capacity of children born after ART, as well as their cardiovascular risk in later adult life. Long-term prospective studies should be performed to provide robust evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Kanaka-Gantenbein
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens, Agia Sophia Children's Hospital, Goudi, Athens, Greece.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ehtisham S, Zacharin M. Primary ovarian failure and small for gestational age: a previously unrecognised association. J Paediatr Child Health 2009; 45:313-6. [PMID: 19493124 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1754.2009.01511.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Ehtisham
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jung H, Rosilio M, Blum WF, Drop SLS. Growth hormone treatment for short stature in children born small for gestational age. Adv Ther 2008; 25:951-78. [PMID: 18836868 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-008-0101-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Children born small for gestational age (SGA) who do not show catch-up in the first 2 years generally remain short for life. Although the majority of children born SGA are not growth hormone (GH) deficient, GH treatment is known to improve average growth in these children.Early studies using GH in children born SGA demonstrated increased height velocity, but these effects tended to be short-term with effects decreasing when GH treatment stopped. With refined GH regimens, significant effects on height have been shown, with gains of approximately 1 standard deviation score after 2 years. Studies have also shown that long-term continuous GH therapy can significantly increase final height to within the normal range. GH treatment of children born SGA does not appear to unduly affect bone age or pubertal development. Growth prediction models have been used to identify various factors involved in the response to GH therapy with age at start, treatment duration, and GH dose showing strong effects. Genetic factors such as the exon 3 deletion of the GH receptor may contribute to short stature of children born SGA and may also be involved in the responsiveness to GH treatment, but there remain other unknown genetic and/or environmental factors. No unexpected safety concerns have arisen in GH therapy trials. In particular, no long-term adverse effects have been seen for glucose metabolism, and positive effects have been shown for lipid profiles and blood pressure.GH treatment in short children born SGA has shown a beneficial, growth-promoting effect in both the short-and long-term, and has become a recognized indication in both the US and Europe. Further studies on individualized treatment regimens and long-term safety are ongoing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heike Jung
- Medical Endocrinology Department, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Bad Homburg, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ceelen M, van Weissenbruch MM, Vermeiden JPW, van Leeuwen FE, Delemarre-van de Waal HA. Pubertal development in children and adolescents born after IVF and spontaneous conception. Hum Reprod 2008; 23:2791-8. [PMID: 18689849 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies demonstrated a link between adverse conditions during prenatal life and the development of diseases in adult life. It is still unclear whether IVF conception could permanently affect early prenatal development in humans, with post-natal health consequences. The objective of the present study is to examine pubertal development in 8-18-year-old IVF singletons and controls born from subfertile parents who attended one Dutch fertility clinic were included. METHODS IVF singletons and controls born from subfertile parents who attended one clinic in the Dutch OMEGA study were included. Pubertal stage by Tanner's classification, age at menarche and menstrual cycle characteristics were studied in the total population (n = 233: 115 IVF-conceived boys and 118 IVF-conceived girls, each with age-matched comparison groups). Bone age and sex hormone levels were examined in two distinct pubertal subpopulations. RESULTS Pubertal stage and age at menarche were not significantly different between IVF and control children. In the pubertal subpopulation, a higher bone age-chronological age (BA-CA) ratio and a larger BA-CA difference were observed in IVF-conceived girls compared with controls (1.04 +/- 0.07 versus 1.02 +/- 0.08, P = 0.022; 0.54 +/- 0.82 versus 0.18 +/- 1.00 year, P = 0.021, respectively). Furthermore, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) and LH levels were significantly higher in IVF-conceived girls than in control subjects (2.5 versus 1.9 micromol/l, P = 0.017, and 1.5 versus 0.6 U/l, P = 0.031, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Bone age appeared to be advanced in pubertal IVF-conceived girls, but not in boys, compared with controls. Increased DHEAS and LH concentrations were found among IVF girls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manon Ceelen
- Department of Paediatrics, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Neuroscience. VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hernández MI, Mericq V. Impact of being born small for gestational age on onset and progression of puberty. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008; 22:463-76. [PMID: 18538286 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2008.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Children born small for gestational age (SGA) are at higher risk for perinatal morbidity, mortality and chronic diseases in later life. There is increasing evidence for a link between prenatal growth and pubertal development, but studies concerning the timing, duration and progression of puberty in these children are scarce and the results are difficult to compare due to the various methodologies employed. Most boys born SGA have normal pubertal timing, but often attain an adult height below the target height. In girls, most studies document a relationship between intra-uterine growth retardation and earlier pubertal development or normal timing but with rapid progression. This chapter will discuss the factors that could influence pubertal development in children born SGA and the information reported to date.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Isabel Hernández
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Casilla 226-3, Santiago, Chile
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
The aim of this study was to estimate pubertal age and to assess the level of physical development of preterm girls with defective vision. The study material - anthropometric data (body height and weight, BMI) and information on the age of menarche were collected from 155 subjects with defective vision (partially sighted and blind). Median age at menarche was estimated by probit analysis. The girls, ranging in age from 7-18 years, attended Centers for Blind and Partially Sighted Children in Wroclaw and Cracow (Poland). 22% of the subjects were prematurely born, were born with low birth mass and their sight defect diagnosed as retinopathy due to prematurity (ROP). The girls with ophthalmic impairments were shorter and lighter than their age peers from the reference data. Blind girls reached pubertal age 2 months earlier than the partially sighted (Me=13.31 and Me=13.44) and, the preterm subjects entered puberty 6 months earlier than the full-term girls, irrespective of degree of defect (Me=12.93 and Me=13.42, respectively). The results suggest that earlier puberty is associated with visual impairment. The results show also that irrespective of the degree of defect, preterm girls reach menarche significantly earlier than those who were full-term. It seems possible that mechanisms responsible for earlier puberty in the preterm subjects and with low body mass play an important a role in sexual maturation in girls with sight dysfunction. There appears to be a need to pursue further studies in this sphere.
Collapse
|
22
|
Sayers S, Mackerras D, Halpin S, Singh G. Growth outcomes for Australian Aboriginal children aged 11 years who were born with intrauterine growth retardation at term gestation. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2007; 21:411-7. [PMID: 17697071 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3016.2007.00852.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Long-term poor growth outcomes are well documented for intrauterine growth-retarded babies (IUGR) in developed populations but there is a paucity of IUGR studies from disadvantaged populations where the greatest burden of IUGR occurs. Using a Northern Territory, Aboriginal cohort recruited at birth and followed up at a mean age of 11.4 years, comparisons of body size were made between children born at term who had been IUGR (n = 121) and those non-IUGR (n = 341), and between those IUGR babies who had an appropriate ponderal index at birth (n = 72) and those with a low ponderal index (n = 49). Compared with non-IUGR children, at follow-up the IUGR children were almost 2 cm shorter (P = 0.10), 4 kg lighter (P < 0.01) and their head circumferences were almost a 1 cm smaller (P < 0.01). For the 121 term IUGR children, there were no significant differences in growth outcomes according to ponderal index measures at birth. These findings from an Australian Aboriginal sample are consistent with other comparisons of IUGR and non-IUGR children in developed populations and suggest there may be no additional effects of IUGR on growth in childhood for disadvantaged populations similar to the Aboriginal population in the Northern Territory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Sayers
- Menzies School of Health Research, Institute of Advanced Studies, Charles Darwin University, Northern Territory, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Quigley CA. Growth hormone treatment of non-growth hormone-deficient growth disorders. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2007; 36:131-86. [PMID: 17336739 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2006.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Although a large body of data on efficacy and safety of growth hormone (GH) treatment for various non-growth hormone-deficient (GHD) growth disorders has accumulated from a combination of clinical trial and postmarketing sources in the last 20 years or more, there remain limitations. Clinical trial data have the advantage of direct comparison of well-matched, randomized patient groups receiving treatment (or not) under comparable conditions and, as such, provide the highest quality evidence of efficacy. Clinical trials, however, are typically too small for any statistically valid assessment for safety, which is more comprehensively addressed using postmarketing data. Consequently, while the efficacy of GH treatment in children with non-GHD growth disorders has been solidly established and, based on the combination of the rigor of the clinical trial data and numerical power of the postmarketing data, no major concerns exist regarding safety, additional long-term data are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charmian A Quigley
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Drop Code 5015, Lilly Corporate Center, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hernández MI, Martínez A, Capurro T, Peña V, Trejo L, Avila A, Salazar T, Asenjo S, Iñiguez G, Mericq V. Comparison of clinical, ultrasonographic, and biochemical differences at the beginning of puberty in healthy girls born either small for gestational age or appropriate for gestational age: preliminary results. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2006; 91:3377-81. [PMID: 16787993 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2005-2368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT There are limited and controversial data concerning puberty characteristics in girls born small for gestational age (SGA). OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to document clinical, ultrasonographic, and biochemical characteristics at the beginning of puberty in matched healthy girls born either SGA or appropriate for gestational age (AGA) recruited from the community. PATIENTS Inclusion criteria were breast Tanner stage II and a body mass index between the 10th and 95th percentiles. INTERVENTIONS Recruited subjects underwent a complete physical exam, bone age, and ultrasound measurements of the internal genitalia. Hormonal assessment included fasting early morning dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androstenedione, SHBG, inhibin-B, FSH, LH, estradiol (E2), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OH Prog), and testosterone. Thereafter, a GnRH agonist test (leuprolide 500 microg, sc) was performed with FSH and LH at time 3 and 24 h for E2, 17OH Prog, and testosterone. RESULTS Sixty-five girls (35 AGA, 30 SGA) with a mean age of 9.9 +/- 1.03 (7.8-12.5) yr, similar bone age/chronological age (1.02 +/- 0.8 in AGA and 1 +/- 0.76 in SGA), median height of 1.35 +/- 0.06 cm, and similar waist to hip ratio were included. No differences in the presence of pubic hair, axillary hair, apocrine odor, or ultrasound measurements were found. SGA girls had increased baseline E2 as well as stimulated E2 and 17OH Prog. CONCLUSIONS In a preliminary sample of lean, healthy girls recruited from the community born either SGA or AGA, we observed slight hormonal differences at the beginning of puberty. Longitudinal follow-up of this cohort will allow us to understand whether these differences are maintained and have a clinical impact in their pubertal development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M I Hernández
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, University of Chile, Casilla 226-3, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Affiliation(s)
- Choong Ho Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Svanes C, Real FG, Gislason T, Jansson C, Jögi R, Norrman E, Nyström L, Torén K, Omenaas E. Association of asthma and hay fever with irregular menstruation. Thorax 2005; 60:445-50. [PMID: 15923242 PMCID: PMC1747439 DOI: 10.1136/thx.2004.032615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is some evidence that asthmatic women are more likely to have abnormal sex hormone levels. A study was undertaken to determine whether asthma and allergy were associated with irregular menstruation in a general population, and the potential role of asthma medication for this association. METHODS A total of 8588 women (response rate 77%) participated in an 8 year follow up postal questionnaire study of participants of the ECRHS stage I in Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. Only non-pregnant women not taking exogenous sex hormones were included in the analyses (n = 6137). RESULTS Irregular menstruation was associated with asthma (OR 1.54 (95% CI 1.11 to 2.13)), asthma symptoms (OR 1.47 (95% CI 1.16 to 1.86)), hay fever (OR 1.29 (95% CI 1.05 to 1.57)), and asthma preceded by hay fever (OR 1.95 (95% CI 1.30 to 2.96)) among women aged 26-42 years. This was also observed in women not taking asthma medication (asthma symptoms: OR 1.44 (95% CI 1.09 to 1.91); hay fever: OR 1.27 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.58); wheeze preceded by hay fever: OR 1.76 (95% CI 1.18 to 2.64)). Irregular menstruation was associated with new onset asthma in younger women (OR 1.58 (95% CI 1.03 to 2.42)) but not in women aged 42-54 years (OR 0.62 (95% CI 0.32 to 1.18)). The results were consistent across centres. CONCLUSIONS Younger women with asthma and allergy were more likely to have irregular menstruation. This could not be attributed to current use of asthma medication. The association could possibly be explained by common underlying metabolic or developmental factors. The authors hypothesise that insulin resistance may play a role in asthma and allergy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Svanes
- Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Boonstra V, van Pareren Y, Mulder P, Hokken-Koelega A. Puberty in growth hormone-treated children born small for gestational age (SGA). J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2003; 88:5753-8. [PMID: 14671164 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2003-030512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Seventy-five small for gestational age (SGA) children were studied in a randomized, double-blind, dose-response GH trial with either 1 or 2 mg GH/m(2).d. Mean (SD) age at the start of GH therapy was 7.3 (2.2) yr. Data were compared with Dutch reference data. In SGA boys, mean (SD) age at onset of puberty was 12.0 (1.0) and 11.6 (0.7) yr, and in SGA girls it was 10.9 (1.1) and 10.6 (1.2) yr when treated with 1 and 2 mg GH/m(2).d, respectively. SGA boys treated with the lower GH dose started puberty later than the appropriate for gestational age (AGA) controls; for the other GH-dosage groups there was no significant difference in age at onset of puberty compared to AGA controls. The age at menarche and the interval between breast stage M2 and menarche were not significantly different for GH-treated SGA girls compared to their peers. The duration of puberty and pubertal height gain of GH-treated SGA boys and girls were not significantly different between the two GH-dosage groups and were comparable with untreated short children born SGA. In conclusion, long-term GH therapy in short SGA children has no influence on the age at onset and progression of puberty compared to AGA controls, regardless of treatment with a dose of 1 or 2 mg GH/m(2).d. Duration of puberty and pubertal height gain were not significantly different between the GH-dosage groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Venje Boonstra
- Department of Pediatrics, Sophia Children's Hospital/Erasmus University, Rotterdam 3015 GJ, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Kanaka-Gantenbein C, Mastorakos G, Chrousos GP. Endocrine-Related Causes and Consequences of Intrauterine Growth Retardation. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2003; 997:150-7. [PMID: 14644821 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1290.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The term intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) is assigned to newborns born with a birth weight and/or birth length below the tenth percentile for their gestational age. Intrauterine growth retardation is usually due to maternal, fetal factors, or placental insufficiency, while endocrine factors represent just a small minority in its etiology. Main endocrine-related causes of IUGR are disorders in insulin or insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) secretion or action. Newborns with IUGR are at increased risk to develop a metabolic syndrome later in life, namely obesity, arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disease, impaired glucose tolerance, or diabetes mellitus type 2. This association is the result of the adaptational changes of the fetal endocrine-metabolic mechanisms to the impaired intrauterine milieu to assure survival in the short term. The persistence of these changes after birth can be detrimental in adult life. Furthermore, premature adrenarche, as well as ovarian hyperandrogenism, seem to be associated with IUGR in girls, demonstrating that IUGR may have long-lasting effects on both somatic health and reproductive function. Finally, the intrauterine exposure of the fetus to stressors may affect the individual's ability to face stress in postnatal life. Therefore, if optimization of somatic and psychosocial well-being of the individual is the golden goal of medicine, special attention should be paid to maintain an optimal intrauterine milieu devoid of any stressors with adequate nutrient supply and to reserve ideal psychosocial support to the pregnant woman.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Kanaka-Gantenbein
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, 1st Department of Pediatrics, Agia Sofia Children's Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, Tymfristou 52-15234 Halandri, Athens, Greece.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|