This observational study is looking into whether girls who are overweight or obese start puberty earlier than girls who are a healthy weight. Researchers want to understand if the obesity epidemic is causing earlier breast development in girls. They will use breast ultrasound to better tell the difference between breast tissue and fatty tissue, which can be difficult in overweight girls. This will help them determine if overweight girls are truly entering puberty sooner. The study is enrolling healthy girls between 8 and 14 years old who have some breast development but have not yet had their first period. The main goal is to see how breast development, measured by ultrasound, relates to standard puberty stages over time.

Study design

This is an observational study aiming to enroll 150 participants. It compares pubertal development in obese girls to normal weight girls.

What's involved

Study procedures include blood draws, DXA scans (to measure body composition), hand x-rays (to check bone age), breast and pelvic ultrasounds, and body measurements. These will be measured semiannually.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Breast development will be measured semiannually, indicating ongoing follow-up during the study.

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