Dr. Lucas Moreno, MD, PhD

Dr. Lucas Moreno is a leading expert in adolescent development and puberty education, with over 12 years of experience combining clinical practice, research, and educational outreach. He specializes in guiding young people and their families through the physical, emotional, and psychological changes of puberty. His work emphasizes inclusive, evidence-based, and developmentally appropriate education that supports healthy growth and self-understanding.

Specialization

Adolescent Development
Puberty Education
Endocrinology and Growth Patterns
Mental Health in Adolescence
Parent-Child Communication in Development

Education

2003–2007: BSc in Human Biology, University of Toronto
2007–2010: MD, McGill University Faculty of Medicine
2010–2014: PhD in Adolescent Health & Development, University of California, San Francisco

Professional Experience

2014–2016: Pediatric Resident, Toronto General Hospital
2016–2019: Pediatric Endocrinologist, Vancouver Children's Hospital
2019–Present: Director of Puberty & Development Programs, International Youth Health Initiative
Consultant for adolescent health programs in North America, Europe, and Latin America

Selected Scientific Publications

Moreno, L. et al. (2022). "Early Puberty Trends and Psychological Impact." Journal of Adolescent Health, 71(5), 563–578.
Moreno, L. (2020). "Effective Communication Strategies for Parents During Adolescence." Pediatric Development Review, 14(2), 120–135.
Moreno, L., & Patel, S. (2018). "Integrating Puberty Education into School Curricula." International Journal of Child & Adolescent Health, 10(3), 45–67.

Professional Memberships

Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM)
International Pediatric Endocrine Society (IPES)
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Advisor, UNICEF Adolescent Growth & Development Initiative (2020–2023)
Collaborator, WHO Global Puberty Education Program (2017–2021)
Project Director, UNESCO “Healthy Growth Education Modules” (2019–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Developer of “Puberty 101” modules for middle and high school students
Training workshops for school counselors and health educators
Parent guidance programs for navigating adolescent development

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest on CBC Radio: “Understanding Adolescent Growth and Development”
TEDx Talk: “Supporting Teens Through Puberty With Confidence” (2022)
Contributor to the “Growing Up Smart” podcast series

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Moreno emphasizes culturally sensitive, research-backed education that empowers adolescents and their caregivers. His international experience and combined clinical, research, and educational expertise allow him to provide practical strategies that support healthy emotional and physical development.