| dc.description.abstract | Menarche, or the first menstruation, is an important indicator in assessing the reproductive health of adolescent girls. The age of menarche continues to decline while the prevalence of early menarche has increased across many countries since the 20th century. According to data SKI (2023), the prevalence of early menarche is 4.6% in Indonesia and 1.9% in North Sumatra. Early menarche is associated with an increased risk of various long-term health complications. This study aimed to identify the factors related to menarche among students in private elementary schools in Medan in 2025. A case-control design was employed with a total sample of 72 respondents, consisting of 24 cases and 48 controls (1:2 ratio), selected through consecutive sampling. Data were collected through interviews using a questionnaire. The results showed that nutritional status (p < 0.028), central obesity (p < 0,045), and stress level (p < 0.041) were significantly associated with menarche. However, parental income (p > 0.656), junk food consumption (p > 0.761), physical activity (p > 0.708), and mass media exposure (p > 0.314) were not significantly associated. It is recommended to provide early education about menarche, promote healthy lifestyles, and optimize the role of schools in balanced nutrition promotion and stress management as preventive actions against early menarche. | en_US |
