Age at menarche and chronological age as explanatory factors of BMI: a cross-sectional study among Peruvian adolescents.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Age at menarche has been associated with various indicators of adolescent health, including body mass index (BMI). However, its specific contribution to BMI across different geographical contexts remains largely unexplored.

Objective

To analyze whether chronological age and age at menarche act as explanatory factors of BMI in a sample of Peruvian adolescents.

Methods

This was an explanatory study. A non-probabilistic sample of 423 adolescents from Lambayeque, Peru, was included. A structured data collection sheet was used to assess age at menarche, as well as weight and height.

Results

The multiple regression model identified age at menarche and chronological age as significant predictors of BMI. Model 2 demonstrated a better fit (BIC = 1658 vs. BIC 

SUBMITTER: Galvez-Diaz NDC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12751542 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature