Breastfeeding and the development of childhood obesity from grades 1 through 6

Past research shows an inverse association between breastfeeding and the risk of childhood obesity. However, the amount and duration of decreased risk varies in different studies. The present study examined the effects of breastfeeding and its duration on the development of childhood obesity from grades 1 through 6 using the longitudinal dataset of National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (NICHD SECCYD). Breastfeeding status was determined for mothers at child's age of 1, 6, 15, and 24 months. Childhood obesity (BMI ≥ the 95th percentile) was defined according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and children were assigned to either the non-obese or obese category at each Grade level. Results: Prevalence of breastfeeding was 57.0%, 47.8%, 20.2%, and 29.7% at 1, 6, 15, and 24 months, respectively. Prevalence of childhood obesity was 11.7%, 16.7%, and 18.5% at grades 1, 3, and 6, respectively. Breastfeeding at month 1 was associated with a lower risk for childhood obesity at grades 1, 3, and 6. The duration of breastfeeding was correlated with a lower prevalence of childhood obesity. Logistic regression showed that breastfeeding at 1 month was associated with about a 46% and 45% decreased risk for childhood obesity at grades 1 and 6, respectively. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) suggested that the absence of breastfeeding was associated with a 45% higher risk for childhood obesity from grades 1 through 6. Conclusion: Breastfeeding may serve as a protective factor and reduce the risk of childhood obesity.