The protective effects of exclusive breastfeeding on infant health

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for six months is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its protective effects against infections. However, despite its benefits, EBF rates decline significantly over time, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of EBF and its association with illness incidence among infants in Kashmir. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at G B Panth Children Hospital, Srinagar from March 2018 to March 2019, enrolling 900 healthy, full-term neonates. Feeding practices and illness incidences were recorded at regular intervals up to six months. The association between EBF and illness rates was analyzed using statistical methods, including logistic regression. Results: EBF rates declined from 100% at birth to 47% at six months. Infants who were exclusively breastfed throughout six months had significantly lower illness incidence (32.5%) compared to non-EBF infants (49%). The illness rate per infant was lower in the EBF group (0.46) than in the non-EBF group (0.61, P = 0.012). Respiratory infections were the most common illness. Logistic regression confirmed that EBF significantly reduced illness risk, particularly beyond 10 weeks of age. Conclusion: Our findings reinforce the protective role of EBF in reducing infant illness, independent of confounders. The sharp decline in EBF rates after four months underscores the need for sustained breastfeeding support. Targeted interventions are essential to promote and maintain EBF, ensuring better infant health outcomes in resource-limited settings.