### Early Menstruation and Health Risks A recent study suggests that girls who start their periods at age 10 or younger may have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and stroke later in life. This study, published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention and Health, found that women who began menstruating before age 13 were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes in adulthood. Among these women, those who started their periods at age 10 or younger had a significantly higher risk of having a stroke before age 65. #### Key Findings - **Higher Risk of Diabetes**: Women who started menstruating early were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. - **Increased Stroke Risk**: Among women with diabetes, those who began menstruating at age 10 or younger had more than double the risk of having a stroke compared to those who started at age 13. #### Why This Happens The exact reasons are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute: - **Longer Exposure to Estrogen**: Early menstruation means longer exposure to estrogen, which has been linked to higher risks of metabolic diseases. - **Body Fat**: Higher levels of body fat in childhood are associated with earlier menstruation and increased risk of metabolic diseases later in life. #### What Can Be Done Women who started their periods early should monitor their metabolic health closely. This includes keeping an eye on blood sugar levels, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. Discussing menstrual history with healthcare providers can help in early detection and prevention of potential health issues. #### Importance of Diverse Studies The study also highlighted the need for more research in ethnically diverse groups to better understand these risks. Identifying modifiable risk factors can help in designing effective interventions to keep people healthier. #### Expert Advice Experts recommend that women who started menstruating at a young age should proactively discuss their metabolic risk factors with their healthcare providers. This can help in early detection and management of potential health issues.