The effects of duration of any breastfeeding on body mass index in Australian children: Exploration of health, economic and equity impacts.

Background: Breastfeeding is a protective measure against childhood overweight and obesity. However, many children are not breastfed the recommended duration, with those from disadvantaged backgrounds more likely to cease breastfeeding early.

Objectives: Investigate the association between duration of any breastfeeding and body mass index (BMI) and estimate the health, economic and equity impacts of increasing breastfeeding duration to at least 6 months.

Methods: We modelled the association between any breastfeeding duration and BMI at age 6/7 years, using a nationally representative cohort of 3935 Australian children (survey weighted to 221 103 children). We then used a simulation model to predict the impact of increasing breastfeeding duration to at least 6 months in all children on prevalence of overweight (including obesity) and associated healthcare costs to age 16/17 years.

Results: Achieving breastfeeding duration of at least 6 months could prevent 2933 cases of overweight at age 16/17 years, translating to healthcare cost-savings of AUD $4.29 million. Although most cases (68%) would come from low socio-economic backgrounds this would make only a minor difference in reducing inequalities.

Conclusion: Efforts to support increased breastfeeding duration could result in reduced prevalence of overweight and obesity and save healthcare costs, however, additional action would be required to improve equity.