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Duration of exclusive breastfeeding and wheezing in the first year of life: A longitudinal study

Elvira Verduci1, Giuseppe Banderali2, Diego Peroni3

  • 1Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Department of Paediatrics, San Paolo Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.

Allergologia Et Immunopathologia
|November 13, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Exclusive breastfeeding for longer periods significantly lowers the risk of wheezing in infants up to 12 months. This finding highlights the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for infant respiratory health.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Wheezing is a common symptom in pediatric asthma.
  • Prospective studies on exclusive breastfeeding and infant wheezing are limited.
  • This study addresses the gap in understanding the relationship between infant feeding practices and wheezing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between exclusive breastfeeding and wheezing at 12 months of age.
  • To quantify the impact of exclusive breastfeeding duration on wheezing incidence.
  • To provide evidence-based recommendations for infant feeding practices.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective cohort study of 1632 mother-infant pairs.
  • Mothers received training on breastfeeding and wheezing recognition.
  • Data collected via diaries and telephone interviews up to 12 months post-delivery.
  • Breastfeeding adherence to WHO guidelines; wheezing classified using ICD-10-CM.

Main Results:

  • Exclusive breastfeeding was initiated in 86.1% of 1522 participating pairs.
  • Incidence of wheezing ever and recurrent wheezing at 12 months was 33.7% and 10.0%.
  • Shorter exclusive breastfeeding duration (median 2.6 months) in wheezing infants (P<0.001).
  • Each additional month of exclusive breastfeeding reduced wheezing risk by 11% (ever) and 15% (recurrent).

Conclusions:

  • Extended exclusive breastfeeding duration is associated with reduced wheezing risk in the first year of life.
  • Findings emphasize the protective role of exclusive breastfeeding against infant wheezing.
  • Recommendations for healthcare providers and mothers on optimal infant feeding practices for respiratory health.
Abstract

Keywords:
AsthmaBreastfeedingExclusive breastfeedingInfantsRecurrent wheezingWheezing

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