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[Child feeding and diarrhea morbidity]
Graciete O Vieira1, Luciana R Silva, Tatiana de O Vieira
1Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana. graciete.vieira@terra.com.br
Jornal De Pediatria
|October 15, 2003
Summary
Breastfeeding protects infants from diarrhea. Exclusive breastfeeding is particularly effective in the first six months of life, significantly reducing diarrhea risk in young children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Diarrheal diseases remain a significant health concern for infants globally.
- Understanding protective factors like breastfeeding is crucial for public health interventions.
- This study focuses on Feira de Santana, Brazil, providing regional insights.
Purpose:
- To assess the protective effect of breastfeeding against diarrhea in children under one year old.
- To quantify the risk reduction associated with breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding.
- To inform public health strategies aimed at reducing infant diarrhea.
Summary:
- A cross-sectional study involving 2,319 children in Feira de Santana, Brazil, evaluated diarrhea prevalence.
- Results indicate diarrhea was more frequent after six months of age.
- Children not breastfed had a 64% higher chance of diarrhea compared to breastfed infants under six months.
Impact:
- Exclusive breastfeeding demonstrated a significant protective role against diarrhea in infants during the first six months.
- Findings support the promotion of breastfeeding as a key strategy to reduce infant morbidity and mortality from diarrhea.
- The study highlights the importance of breastfeeding support programs in developing regions.