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Breastfeeding and lowering the risk of childhood obesity

Julie Armstrong1, John J Reilly,

  • 1Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK

Lancet (London, England)
|June 22, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Breastfeeding may protect against childhood obesity. This study found significantly lower obesity rates in breastfed children, suggesting a protective effect even after accounting for other factors. This supports breastfeeding for long-term health.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern.
  • Evidence linking breastfeeding to reduced obesity risk is inconclusive.
  • Understanding protective factors for healthy weight development is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between breastfeeding and the risk of obesity in early childhood.
  • To test the hypothesis that breastfeeding confers protection against later obesity.

Main Methods:

  • Population-based study of 32,200 Scottish children.
  • Data collected between 1998-1999, assessing children at 39-42 months.
  • Obesity defined by body-mass index (BMI) at the 95th and 98th percentiles or higher.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of obesity was significantly lower in breastfed children.
  • This association remained significant after adjusting for socioeconomic status, birthweight, and sex.
  • The adjusted odds ratio for obesity (BMI ≥ 98th percentile) was 0.70 (95% CI 0.61-0.80).

Conclusions:

  • Breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of childhood obesity.
  • Findings suggest a protective role for breastfeeding in preventing obesity.
  • Supports public health initiatives promoting breastfeeding for long-term child health.

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