To study the frequency, identify risk factors and to assess protective efficacy of breastfeeding against acute respiratory infections in infants up to one year of age.

   Community-based prospective, longitudinal, observational study

      2 years from March 2003 to February 2005.

      Corporation Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore.

    220 full term normal babies born in an urban maternity hospital were enrolled and followed prospectively up to one year of age at monthly intervals by home visits. Infants with congenital cardiac defects, immunodeficiency prematurity, birth asphyxia and ventilatory support were excluded. During each monthly visit details on respiratory infections, treatment, hospitalization, breastfeeding details, immunization and anthropometry were documented. Data was analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.

      The average annual frequency of ARI was 6.4 episodes per child per year with a male preponderance (6.76 vs 5.99). The frequency of LRTI was less than 1%. Frequency of ARI was seen to be inversely associated with the duration of exclusively breastfed period and rising sharply with the introduction of complementary feeds. Logistic regression analysis showed that shorter duration of exclusive breastfeeding (P<0.0001) were associated with increased frequency of ARI. Babies exclusively breastfed for at least 6 months and fewer episodes of ARI and better growth.

    The study gives an insight into the current frequency, risk factors and protective role of breastfeeding against acute respiratory infections in infants in an urban population. Health education and campaign to promote exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months and prolonged breastfeeding and life style modifications protects infants against recurrent respiratory infections. Promote better growth and development.

   ARI: Acute respiratory tract infection
   AURI: Acute upper respiratory infection
   ALRI: as the lower respiratory infection
   EBF: Exclusive breastfeeding

Karnataka Pedicon 2005 - Conference Abstracts.Pediatric Oncall [serial online] 2006 [cited 01 January 2006];3. Available from:
http://www.pediatriconcall.com/fordoctor/Conference_abstracts/
breastfeeding_against_acute_respiratory.asp