Does ethnicity affect the onset of puberty?

Donna Hill Howes, RN

Family Practitioner

The onset of puberty may be related to ethnicity, especially in girls. Caucasian girls tend to begin puberty later than Mexican-American and African-American girls. Puberty typically starts later for Asian-American girls than the other listed ethnicities. Body mass index difference may be the cause for this difference, although environment and genetics could also be related.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Puberty

Puberty affects children between the ages of 11 and 14. The changes can be drastic and all at once, changing your physical growth, cognitive development, emotional and social skills, as well as sensory and motor development. Rapid changes often occur earlier in girl than in boys but both genders will go through physical and emotional changes that segue childhood into adulthood. If often is a difficult time of transition for the adolescent as well as the parents, but strong family support will reaffirm your childs sense of self.

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Does ethnicity affect the onset of puberty?

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