Breastfeeding and behavior disorders among children and adolescents: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Developmental Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Behavioral disorders in childhood and adolescence are a significant public health concern.
• Understanding modifiable risk factors, such as infant feeding practices, is crucial for prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing evidence on the association between breastfeeding and behavior disorders.
• To evaluate the impact of breastfeeding duration and exclusivity on behavioral outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Lilacs, and PsycINFO databases up to December 2016.
• Inclusion criteria focused on prospective, retrospective, and cross-sectional studies in humans using psychometric tests.
• Studies published in Portuguese, English, or Spanish were included, with data extraction performed by two independent researchers.

Main Results:

• Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria, examining childhood and adolescent behavior disorders.
• Breastfeeding for 3–4 months or longer showed an inverse association with total behavior and conduct disorders in childhood.
• The duration of breastfeeding appeared more influential than exclusive or non-exclusive patterns; findings for adolescent behavior were less clear.

Conclusions:

• Consistent breastfeeding for at least 3–4 months is associated with reduced total behavior and conduct disorders in childhood.
• Further research is required to elucidate the association in adolescence and for diverse behavioral profiles.
• The duration of breastfeeding is a key factor in its protective effect on behavioral development.