Breastfeeding versus formula-feeding and girls' pubertal development
Aarti Kale1, Julianna Deardorff, Maureen Lahiff
1School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA, kale.aarti@gmail.com.
Maternal and Child Health Journal
|June 12, 2014
Summary
Breastfeeding, particularly exclusive or predominant breastfeeding, is associated with a later onset of breast development in girls. The duration of breastfeeding also correlates with delayed pubertal timing, suggesting infant feeding influences pubertal onset.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Reproductive Health
- Public Health Nutrition
Background:
- Early pubertal onset is linked to increased risks for adverse health outcomes in adulthood.
- Understanding factors influencing pubertal timing is crucial for public health interventions.
- Infant feeding practices, including breastfeeding, are potential modifiable factors affecting pubertal development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between breastfeeding (type and duration) and the timing of pubertal onset in girls.
- To explore the mediating role of Body Mass Index (BMI) in the association between breastfeeding and pubertal timing.
- To identify potential modifiable risk factors for pubertal maturation.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study involving 1,237 socio-economically and ethnically diverse girls aged 6-8 years.
- Breastfeeding practices assessed via caregiver questionnaires; pubertal development (breast and pubic hair) monitored annually.
- Statistical analysis using parametric survival analysis, adjusting for covariates including BMI, ethnicity, and socioeconomic factors.
Main Results:
- Mixed-fed and predominantly breastfed girls exhibited a later onset of breast development compared to formula-fed girls.
- A significant positive association was found between breastfeeding duration and the age of breast development onset (p trend = 0.008).
- No significant associations were observed between breastfeeding and pubic hair onset; site-specific variations in findings were noted.
Conclusions:
- Breastfeeding, especially longer durations, appears to be associated with delayed breast development onset in girls.
- The influence of breastfeeding on pubertal timing may vary by geographic location and other environmental factors.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the complex interplay between infant feeding, environmental contexts, and pubertal development, potentially impacting long-term health.
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