ALEITAMENTO ARTIFICIAL E O RISCO DE OTITE MÉDIA EM CRIANÇAS

Introduction: Exclusive breastfeeding until six months is essential for the baby's health, as recommended by the WHO and the Ministry of Health. Otitis media, one of the most common infections in childhood, can be caused by various factors, including the anatomy of the Eustachian tube and the immaturity of the child's immune system. Children fed with infant formulas, lacking the antibodies present in breast milk, are more likely to develop otitis media, as are those who use pacifiers or have conditions such as allergies and reflux. Inadequate vaccination also increases the risk of infections. Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed and SciELO databases. The final sample included 4 articles in Portuguese and English, published since 2008. Articles not relevant to the topic were excluded. Results and Discussion: Results show that when a baby is fed with a bottle and formula milk, the muscular activity during sucking is reduced, which weakens the soft palate muscles and affects the tensor veli palatini muscle responsible for opening the Eustachian tube. This hinders proper ventilation of the Eustachian tube and can allow milk to enter the middle ear. The lack of antibodies and immune components in formula milk increases the risk of infections, such as otitis media, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. In contrast, breast milk contains Secretory Immunoglobulin A (IgA S), which protects against infections by blocking the entry of microorganisms into the middle ear and controlling inflammation. Conclusion: Otitis media in children is a multifaceted condition influenced by anatomical, immunological, and environmental factors. Exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for the prevention of this infection, as secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA S) in breast milk provides effective defense on mucosal surfaces by blocking the adhesion and proliferation of pathogens. In contrast, formula feeding does not offer this immunological protection and, by reducing muscular activity during sucking, may lead to the accumulation of milk in the middle ear, increasing the risk of infections. Therefore, encouraging and maintaining exclusive breastfeeding in the first months of life is essential to protect children’s auditory and overall health, reducing the incidence of otitis media and its complications.