Relationship of Exclusive Breastfeeding with History of Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) in Children in Benha University | ||||
| The Egyptian Journal of Hospital Medicine | ||||
| Article 66, Volume 94, Issue 1, January 2024, Page 445-448 PDF (342.53 K) | ||||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||||
| DOI: 10.21608/ejhm.2024.338759 | ||||
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| 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 | ||||
| Exclusive breastfeeding; Acute respiratory infection; Maternal history; Child health | ||||
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