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Environmental factors in childhood IDDM. A population-based, case-control study
C F Verge1, N J Howard, L Irwig
1Ray Williams Institute for Pediatric Endocrinology, Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children, Sydney, Australia.
Diabetes Care
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Early cow's milk formula and infections increase insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) risk. Exclusive breastfeeding for over three months offers protection against childhood diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is a significant childhood autoimmune disease.
- Identifying environmental triggers for IDDM is crucial for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate environmental factors contributing to the etiology of IDDM in children.
- To assess the association between early life exposures and the risk of developing IDDM.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study was conducted in New South Wales, Australia, involving children aged 0-14 years.
- Environmental exposures were assessed via parental questionnaires for IDDM patients and matched controls.
- Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios for various exposures.
Main Results:
- Early introduction of cow's milk-based infant formula (before 3 months) was linked to increased IDDM risk (OR 1.52).
- Exclusive breastfeeding for ≥3 months showed a protective effect (OR 0.66).
- High cow's milk protein intake, recent infections, and early day care attendance (before age 3) were also associated with higher IDDM risk.
Conclusions:
- Early dietary exposure to cow's milk formula, insufficient breastfeeding, high milk protein intake, recent infections, and early day care are associated with increased IDDM risk.
- The influence of these factors may vary by age at IDDM onset.