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Factors of early infancy and recurrent use of antibiotic therapy

K Louhi-Pirkanniemi1, P Rautava, M Aromaa

  • 1Department of Public Health, University of Turku, Turku, Finland. katlou@netti.fi

Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|October 27, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Early infant factors like male gender, frequent doctor visits, and paternal support needs are linked to recurrent antibiotic use. Considering social and psychological aspects can help prevent antibiotic overuse in infants.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Family Medicine

Background:

  • Recurrent antibiotic use in infants is a growing concern, potentially leading to antibiotic resistance.
  • Understanding factors influencing antibiotic prescription is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
  • Early life experiences significantly shape infant health trajectories and healthcare utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between early infant, parent, family functioning, and social relation factors within the first three months of life and recurrent antibiotic treatments.
  • To identify key predictors of frequent antibiotic prescriptions in infants.
  • To inform strategies for reducing antibiotic overuse in early childhood.

Main Methods:

  • A population-based cohort study followed 1443 expecting parents from pregnancy until infant age 18 months.
  • Data on antibiotic treatments (none, 1-5, >=6) were collected at 9 and 18 months for 817 infants.
  • Infant-related, parent-related, family functioning, and social relation factors were assessed during the infant's first three months.

Main Results:

  • Male infant gender was associated with a 2.8-fold increased odds of recurrent antibiotic use.
  • Frequent physician consultations in early infancy showed a 3.1-fold increased odds of recurrent antibiotic use.
  • Father's need for outside support was linked to a 2.2-fold increased odds of recurrent antibiotic use.

Conclusions:

  • Early infant medical factors, alongside family and social factors, are associated with frequent medical consultations and antibiotic prescriptions.
  • The father's need for support and frequent early consultations are significant predictors of recurrent antibiotic use.
  • Preventing antibiotic overuse requires consideration of social and psychological factors in infant care and healthcare decisions.
Abstract

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