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Breastfeeding is protective to diabetes risk in young adults: a longitudinal study

Abdullah Al Mamun1, Michael J O'Callaghan2, Gail M Williams3

  • 1School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Herston Rd, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia. mamun@sph.uq.edu.au.

Acta Diabetologica
|December 26, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Breastfeeding for at least 4 months significantly reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in young adults. This protective effect against diabetes is independent of body mass index (BMI).

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • The relationship between breastfeeding duration and the long-term risk of diabetes in offspring remains unclear.
  • Understanding protective factors for adult-onset diabetes is crucial for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between the duration of breastfeeding and the development of type 2 diabetes in adulthood.
  • To determine if breastfeeding offers protection against diabetes independent of other risk factors.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 3,595 offspring born in Brisbane, Australia (1981-1983) was followed until age 21.
  • Maternal-reported breastfeeding duration (never, <4 months, ≥4 months) and offspring diabetes diagnosis were recorded.
  • Multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the independent effects of breastfeeding duration on diabetes risk.

Main Results:

  • 1.25% of offspring developed diabetes by age 21.
  • Offspring breastfed for ≥4 months had a significantly lower odds of developing diabetes (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.13, 0.63) compared to never-breastfed offspring.
  • The protective association remained significant after adjusting for maternal and offspring factors, including BMI.

Conclusions:

  • Breastfeeding for a minimum of 4 months provides substantial protection against type 2 diabetes in young adulthood.
  • Promoting extended breastfeeding may be a viable strategy for diabetes prevention.
  • The protective effect of breastfeeding on diabetes risk is independent of offspring's BMI at age 21.
Abstract

Keywords:
BreastfeedingDiabetesDurationYoung adults

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