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Factors associated with atopy in toddlers: a case-control study
Jolene Yung1, John W M Yuen1, Yvonne Ou2
1School of Nursing, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China. john.yuen@polyu.edu.hk.
Insights
Infant feeding practices and family factors are linked to atopic illness in Hong Kong toddlers. Maternal antibiotic use and later mixed feeding increased atopy risk, while exclusive breastfeeding showed a protective association.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Atopic illnesses, such as eczema and allergies, are common in early childhood.
- Understanding the influence of infant feeding and family factors on atopy development is crucial for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between infant feeding methods, family, and environmental factors with atopic illness in Hong Kong toddlers.
- To identify risk and protective factors for atopy in early childhood.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed.
- 206 toddlers aged 4 months to 3 years in Hong Kong were recruited.
- Binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine associations.
Main Results:
- Atopy was associated with male gender (OR 2.072), maternal antibiotic use (OR 2.276), delayed mixed feeding (OR 2.497), and exclusive breastfeeding for 3 months (OR 1.972).
- Maternal history of eczema significantly increased the risk of atopy in toddlers (OR 4.510).
Conclusions:
- Infant feeding practices, maternal health, and family history are significant factors in toddler atopy.
- While exclusive breastfeeding shows a protective effect, further research into breast milk's nutritional components is recommended.
Abstract:
In this case-control study the association between the approaches used to feed infants, together with known family and environmental factors, and the occurrence of atopic illness in toddlers between the ages of 4 months to 3 years in Hong Kong was examined. A total of 206 subjects were recruited from April to June of 2014. The results obtained by binary logistic regression indicated that atopy is associated with boys (OR 2.072, CI 1.089-3.941), the maternal use of antibiotics in utero or while breast feeding (OR 2.276, CI 1.151-4.504), the later commencement of mixed feeding (OR 2.497, CI 1.025-6.082), breast feeding exclusively for 3 months (OR 1.972, CI 1.009-3.857), and having a mother who was diagnosed with eczema (OR 4.510, CI 1.764-11.530). Although an exclusive reliance on breast feeding has been shown to be predictive of atopy among toddlers, the positive qualities of breast milk cannot be ignored. A further study of the contents and nutritional values of breast milk is warranted.
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