The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe cover image

The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe

The Skeptics Guide #987 - Jun 8 2024

Jun 8, 2024
Exploring the Drake Equation and space achievements, adaptogens controversy, menarche trends, alien claims by former US Army officer, metasurfaces advancements, racism in archaeology, and biotechnological plant innovations.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Girls are experiencing menarche at a younger age, influenced by factors like childhood obesity, diet, and environmental pollutants.
  • Early menarche is rising across all socioeconomic and racial groups, emphasizing the need for further investigation and targeted interventions.

Deep dives

Trends in Early Menarche and Irregular Cycles

Research reveals a concerning trend where girls are experiencing menarche at a younger age, with those born between 2000 and 2005 reaching their first period at an average age of 11.9 years compared to 12.5 years for those born between 1950 and 1969. Early periods, defined as starting before age 11, have increased from 8.6% to 15.5%, with very early periods (before age 9) rising from 0.6% to 1.4%. Additionally, the time for menstrual cycles to stabilize has increased, indicating a potential shift in maturation patterns.

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