P1092 CONSEQUENCES OF SHORT DURATION OF BREAST FEEDING ON COMMON ACUTE INFECTION

Abstract

Introduction: In Algeria, mothers usually breast feed their children for a shorter period than the commonly recommended 6 month exclusive breast feeding. Methods: The aim of the present study was to describe the consequences of early weaning on common infections, nutritional status, and intestinal flora. Methodology. A cohort of 206 children was prospectively followed from birth, every 21 days, for a period of 2 years. Results: 1. At birth, 67% of the infants were exclusively breast fed, but only 6% did not receive breast milk. Median duration of exclusive breast feeding was 30 days, and 70 days was the time for complete cessation of breast feeding. At 6 months, only 20% of the children received breast milk. 2. Acute diarrhea was observed in 82% of the children, with 615 episodes of a median duration of 49 hours. The incidence increased from 0.7 episode per child and year during exclusive breast feeding, to 1.9 in partial breast feeding and 2.5 after weaning (P<0.01). 3. No similar significant difference was observed for other acute respiratory infectious diseases. 4. There was no significant long term consequences of diarrhea on nutritional status. 5. At weaning, anaerobic and enterobacteria increased, but bifidobacteria decreased (P<0.01). Conclusion: In Algeria, breast feeding duration is much less than commonly recommended. Early weaning is associated with increased incidence of acute diarrhea, without observed consequences on acute respiratory infection.