Impact of fetal and neonatal malnutrition on the onset of puberty and associated noncommunicable disease risks

The most recent research into the proximate mechanisms that initiate puberty are reviewed to explore how the activation of those mechanisms could be affected by nutritional cues received during fetal and neonatal life; and, finally, to briefly explore the ramifications for public health.

Abstract

More attention should be paid to fetal and neonatal nutrition and puberty onset if we are to meaningfully curb the troubling growth of NCDs now and in the future. Efforts to improve maternal conditions among vulnerable poor groups as well as more affluent groups worldwide should be explored, especially among groups undergoing rapid nutritional transition.