Such young girls in bloom | France 2 | Envoyé Spécial

They are between 7 and 10 years old and their bodies are already changing. These children have to deal with premature puberty, an abnormal change at their age. Paediatricians in France are alarmed to see more and more pre-pubescent girls come into their surgeries. Although the age of the first period, at around 12, has not changed, more and more young girls are developing breasts and bodily hair before the age of 8. An imbalance that is not without risk for their health. Nutrition, obesity, genetic factors and environmental factors might explain this premature start to puberty. Some scientists believe that the chemical substances that swamp our daily lives are the principal causes: studies show that Bisphenol A, phthalates and pesticides might well upset our hormonal system. Such chemical products may imitate and hamper the action of natural hormones. They are to be found everywhere: in food, cosmetics and also in children’s toys. In the United States, 15% of girls are said to experience such development from the age of 7. In France, studies by the INED (National Institute for Demographic Studies) also point to a regular lowering of the age of puberty. How do little girls cope with this premature transformation? What are its causes? What are the long-term risks for the population? Is there any efficient treatment?