Katherine Shealy, MPH, IBCLC, RLC, Breastfeeding Specialist, Department of Nutrition and Physical Activity, Centers For Disease Control and Prevention

    Breastfeeding substantially and significantly reduces maternal and infant health risk worldwide. A new systematic review of evidence from developed countries clarifies that breastfeeding offers infants dramatic protection from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, chronic diseases including asthma, atopic dermatitis, childhood leukemia, obesity, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and common childhood illnesses including otitis media, gastrointestinal infection, and lower respiratory tract diseases. Additionally, the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes for mothers who are supported to breastfeed is significantly reduced.

    Systematic reviews of breastfeeding health outcomes historically focused on the health and child survival risks in developing countries. The incomparable and necessary role of breastfeeding in these contexts is well-established. Some have speculated that the health impact of breastfeeding outside of developing countries is irrelevant. Although unique risks from formula use exacerbated by poor water quality, contamination in manufacturing processes, and unreliable product availability are undeniable, the biologic specificity of human lactation is fundamental and remains critical in developed countries.

    The US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) sponsors development of evidence reports through their Evidence-Based Practice Centers (EPCs) to improve the quality of health care in the United States. Reports generated from EPCs’ systematic reviews of relevant scientific literature provide organizations with comprehensive, science-based information on medical conditions and new health care technologies. The Office of Women’s Health, Department of Health and Human Services, requested and provided funding for the completion of an evidence report specific to developed countries.

    Breastfeeding and Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes in Developed Countries, Evidence Report/Technology Assessment number 153 is an invaluable resource for researchers, public health professionals and clinicians, all of whom play a critical role in supporting breastfeeding. It can be ordered free from AHRQ. All information from the report, including evidence tables and appendices can also be viewed and downloaded from the AHRQ Web site.