Duration of breast feeding and cognitive function: Population based cohort study
Antônio A M Silva1, Ziyah Mehta, Finbar J K O'Callaghan
1Department of Public Health, Federal University of Maranhao, rua Barao de Itapary 155, Sao Luis, Maranhao, Brazil. aasilva@elo.com.br
European Journal of Epidemiology
|July 5, 2006
Summary
Breastfeeding duration shows a minimal association with cognitive function in late childhood. Advanced statistical analysis indicates this link is not clinically significant, suggesting other factors may be more influential.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Existing research suggests a weak positive association between breastfeeding and cognitive function.
- This association has remained consistent even after accounting for confounding variables.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the duration of breastfeeding and cognitive function in children at 10 years of age.
- To compare estimation methods for assessing this association.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the 1970 British Cohort Study, following 11004 participants from birth to age 10.
- Cognitive function was assessed using a composite measure including ability tests and performance metrics.
- Employed multiple linear regression and structural equation modeling to analyze the data, adjusting for socioeconomic status, birth weight, and maternal factors.
Main Results:
- Multiple linear regression indicated a small effect size (Standardized Coefficient = 0.07) for breastfeeding duration on cognitive function.
- Structural equation modeling revealed a much smaller, non-significant effect size (Standardized Coefficient = 0.02) after comprehensive adjustments.
- The findings suggest that the influence of breastfeeding duration on cognitive outcomes is minimal.
Conclusions:
- The association between breastfeeding duration and cognitive function in late childhood is small.
- Structural equation modeling suggests this association lacks clinical significance.
- Further research may explore other determinants of cognitive development.
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