NIDDM and breastfeeding

Abstract

The study by David Pettitt and co-workers in today's Lancet shows an association between breastfeeding and reduced risk of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). The relation was consistent by age cohort, by degree of breastfeeding, and by degree of obesity. Prospective randomised controlled studies investigating the relation between breastfeeding and NIDDM could theoretically be piggy-backed onto those underway for insulin-dependent diabetes. However, such studies would need to be extended for several decades since they are being conducted among ethnic groups with much lower prevalences of NIDDM and a higher age at diagnosis than Pimas. In view of the lack of markers with a high positive-predictive value for NIDDM and the length of time needed to complete randomised trials, it is essential that the findings of this new study are put into perspective. Breastfeeding and incidence of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in Pima IndiansExclusive breastfeeding for the first 2 months of life is associated with a significantly lower rate of NIDDM in Pima Indians. The increase in prevalence of diabetes in some populations may be due to the concomitant decrease in breastfeeding. Full-Text PDF