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Is there any relation between Duration of breastfeeding and anemia?

H Dalili1, A Baghersalimi2, S Dalili3

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Breastfeeding Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Iranian Journal of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
|March 18, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Exclusive breastfeeding for over six months increases anemia risk in infants. However, breastfeeding for four months significantly reduces this risk. Health programs should consider iron supplementation and delivery practices.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Nutrition

Background:

  • Breastfeeding is crucial for infant survival, reducing disease recovery time and mortality from infections.
  • Prolonged exclusive breastfeeding (over 6 months) in developing nations is linked to increased infant anemia risk.
  • This study investigates the relationship between breastfeeding duration and anemia in neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the association between the duration of breastfeeding and the incidence of anemia in infants.
  • To identify factors influencing anemia in neonates within a primary healthcare setting.

Main Methods:

  • An analytical cross-sectional study involving 400 neonates.
  • Collected data included complete blood count and serum ferritin levels.
  • Statistical analysis employed chi-square and regression analyses, with significance set at P<0.05.

Main Results:

  • 199 infants (49.75%) were identified as anemic (Hemoglobin <11 mg/dL).
  • Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) was present in 25% of anemic infants; 10% had low ferritin (<12 ng/dL).
  • Logistic regression indicated that delivery type and breastfeeding duration were significant factors; exclusive breastfeeding for 6+ months increased anemia likelihood, while 4 months of exclusive breastfeeding reduced it by 0.686 fold.

Conclusions:

  • Current health program recommendations for iron supplementation may require revision.
  • National strategies should focus on educating about natural vaginal delivery and optimal umbilical cord clamping timing.
  • Findings suggest a critical window for exclusive breastfeeding duration to mitigate anemia risk.
Abstract

Keywords:
AnemiaBreast FeedingFerritinIron-Deficiency

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