Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Noninvasive Sampling of Mucosal Lining Fluid for the Quantification of In Vivo Upper Airway Immune-mediator Levels
05:31

Noninvasive Sampling of Mucosal Lining Fluid for the Quantification of In Vivo Upper Airway Immune-mediator Levels

Published on: August 7, 2017

Breastfeeding, body mass index, asthma and atopy in children

W H Oddy1, J L Sherriff

  • 1Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Science, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. wendyo@ichr.uwa.edu.au

Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health
|October 18, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Breastfeeding duration is linked to reduced child body mass index (BMI), asthma, and atopy. Shorter breastfeeding periods increase risks for these conditions, highlighting the importance of extended breastfeeding for infant health.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Childhood asthma and atopy are significant public health concerns.
  • The role of early life factors, including infant feeding and body mass index (BMI), is under investigation.
  • Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between breastfeeding duration, child BMI, and the development of asthma and atopy at age six.
  • To determine the influence of child BMI on the relationship between breastfeeding and respiratory/allergic outcomes.
  • To assess the impact of early formula introduction on these health indicators.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective birth cohort study design.
  • Statistical modeling to analyze associations between breastfeeding duration, BMI, asthma, and atopy.
  • Adjustment for relevant covariates to isolate the effects of interest.

Main Results:

  • Breastfeeding duration showed a marginal association with decreased child BMI (p=0.083) after covariate adjustment.
  • Child BMI was significantly associated with current asthma (p<0.0005) and atopy (p=0.055).
  • Exclusive breastfeeding for less than four months increased the risk of current asthma (p=0.033) and atopy (p=0.005).

Conclusions:

  • Early introduction of formula may increase child BMI and the risk of early asthma and atopy.
  • Increased BMI is identified as a risk factor for childhood asthma and atopy.
  • Optimizing breastfeeding duration and reducing childhood overweight are recommended public health interventions to mitigate wheezing illnesses.

Related Concept Videos

Asthma I: Introduction01:28

Asthma I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
Asthma-I: Introduction01:29

Asthma-I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification01:26

Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification

Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations01:13

Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations

Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management

The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Asthma-IV: Nursing Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Nursing Management

The nursing management of asthma is a comprehensive approach that relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of healthcare professionals. It involves thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, strategic planning, effective implementation, and diligent evaluation. By meticulously following this step-by-step process, healthcare professionals play a crucial role in providing the best possible care and treatment for patients with asthma, enhancing their overall health and well-being.
First, in...