Question

identifying the causes of precocious puberty
in the united states, the onset of puberty has been occurring earlier and earlier. today, about 10 percent of children ages 6 or 7 begin developing signs of puberty, a condition known as precocious puberty.
in the early 1900s, girls typically began menstruating at age 17. today, girls typically begin around age 12. this trend has been attributed to the growing number of overweight children and a greater exposure to pollutants. exposure to phthalates, artificial chemicals found in plastics, has also been cited as a cause. these chemicals disrupt the endocrine system by mimicking hormones in the body.
early puberty can have many negative side effects, including an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer. children are often emotionally unprepared for the physical changes taking place in their bodies. as a result, behavioral and psychological problems may increase
according to the text, what are the likely causes of precocious puberty? check all that apply
□ exposure to pollutants
□ exposure to phthalates
□ certain types of cancers
□ unhealthy weight gain
□ disruptions to the endocrine system
□ emotional and psychological problems

Explanation:

The text states that the trend of earlier puberty is attributed to overweight children (unhealthy weight gain), greater exposure to pollutants, exposure to phthalates (which disrupt the endocrine system). Certain cancers are a side effect, not a cause; emotional/psychological problems are also effects, not causes.

Answer:

exposure to pollutants, exposure to phthalates, unhealthy weight gain, disruptions to the endocrine system