Relationship of Exclusive Breastfeeding with History of Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) in Children in Benha University

Document Type : Original Article

Abstract

Background:Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) represent a significant public health concern in young children, with potential long-term consequences for their health and well-being. Exclusive breastfeeding has been postulated to have a protective effect against ARIs, but the extent of this association requires further investigations.
Objective: This research aimed to determine whether or not exclusive breastfeeding was associated with upper and lower respiratory tract infections during infancy. Methods:This cross-sectional observational study was carried out in November and December 2022 at Benha University Hospital. Children with acute respiratory tract infections between 1 and 24 months were included. Children with immunocompromised states or chronic inflammatory disorders were excluded. Comprehensive medical, obstetric, maternal, familial, and perinatal records were compiled.
Results: Of the children in the study, 58% received exclusive breastfeeding, and 48% experienced acute respiratory infections. Those with acute respiratory infections had significantly lower exclusive breastfeeding rates (20.8%) compared to those without respiratory infections (92.3%). Univariate analysis indicated that higher gestational age and exclusive breastfeeding were correlated with a lower risk of acute respiratory infection. In the multivariate analysis, exclusive breastfeeding was associated with a substantial 97.6% risk reduction in acute respiratory infections.
Conclusions: The results showed a statistically significant correlation between the occurrence of ARIs and lower gestational age. It has been shown that exclusive breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of developing ARIs.
 

Keywords

The Egyptian Journal of Hospital Medicine
Volume 94, Issue 1
January 2024
Pages 445-448

Files

Share

How to cite

Statistics