Cortisol Levels in Adolescents
Author Information
Author(s): Kelly Shona J., Young Robert, Sweeting Helen, Fischer Joachim E., West Patrick
Primary Institution: University of Nottingham
Hypothesis
What are the typical cortisol levels and confounding factors affecting them in adolescents in a school setting?
Conclusion
The study provides norms for morning cortisol levels in 15-year-old adolescents and identifies several factors that influence these levels.
Supporting Evidence
- 73% of participants showed a decline in cortisol levels, indicating a normal diurnal pattern.
- Cortisol levels were significantly associated with factors like time of measurement and life events.
- Median cortisol levels were 10.5 nmol/L for males and 11.6 nmol/L for females at Time 1.
Takeaway
This study looked at how much cortisol, a stress hormone, teenagers have in the morning and what things can change those levels.
Methodology
Adolescents provided two saliva samples 30 minutes apart during school, along with a questionnaire about their health and life events.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the specific school environment.
Limitations
The study's narrow age range and school-based sample may not represent all adolescents.
Participant Demographics
15-year-old adolescents from 22 schools in an urban area.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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