Washington, Aug. 21 -- Researchers discovered that early puberty or childbirth doubles women's risk for major diseases and accelerates ageing, while later timing offers protective benefits.

Genetic analysis reveals evolutionary tradeoffs, where reproductive advantages early in life create health burdens later. Reproductive timing matters when it comes to ageing and age-related disease.

In a study now online at eLife,, Buck researchers determine that girls who go through puberty (the onset of menstruation) before the age of 11 or women who give birth before the age of 21 have double the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart failure and obesity and quadruple the risk of developing severe metabolic disorders.

The study also reveals th...