Chemical link to puberty

Chemicals found in some household products have been linked to early puberty among girls.

A study found that chemicals in some personal care products were associated with girls starting puberty earlier than their peers.

Researchers examined the levels of chemicals of mothers during pregnancy and children when they were nine years old.

The study, published in the journal Human Reproduction, examined chemical levels including phthalates, parabens and phenols. Certain phthalates are used in perfumes, deodorants, soaps, shampoo and cosmetics. Parabens are often used in cosmetics and phenols can be used in soap, toothpaste, lipsticks and shampoos.

Dr Kim Harley said: “Earlier puberty in girls increases their risk of mental health problems and breast and ovarian cancer over the long term.”