Abstract
BackgroundThe objectives of this secondary analysis were to compare the; (i) cognitive and (ii) behavioural outcomes in children born congenitally normal, non-preterm, and non-growth restricted that were breastfed beyond one month of age with those that were not breastfed or breastfed for <1-month. MethodsAn original prospective cohort study conducted on n=2097 fetuses compared children with normal fetal UAD PI (Umbilical Artery Doppler Pulsatility Index) against those with an elevated UAD PI and assessed neurocognitive development at twelve years of age using British Ability Scale Version II (BAS II) and the Achenbach Behavioural Checklist Parent Rated Version (CBCL). This secondary analysis included children where maternal breastfeeding status was known (n=252). Childhood cognitive and behavioural scores were analysed and compared for the breastfed versus the non-breastfed group. Linear regression analysis was performed, controlling for confounders including gender, age at assessment, Townsend Score, and UAD PI. Results Excluding congenitally abnormal, preterm and growth restricted babies, n=206 were included. The mean age at follow-up was 12.2 years (±0.6 SD) for both groups with 43.5% (n=20) and 50.3% (n=81) of male gender in both groups respectively. When comparing those children who were breastfed against those who were not or for <1-month, the breastfed group score higher in spelling (p<0.001) and reading (p<0.001) assessments. As was also the case in verbal (p<0.001), reasoning (p<0.001) and spatial ability scores (p<0.001). In relation to behavioural assessments, there was no difference between groups. Conclusion Term babies who are breastfed for >1-month have more optimal scores in neurocognition when analysed at 12-years with no differences in parent observed behaviour compared to non-breastfed/breastfed for <1-month counterparts. These findings must be interpreted with caution due to the presence of confounders with further research into the biological and physiological mechanisms by which breastfeeding may optimise brain development.
OP15.05: Perinatal outcome of monochorionic twins with sIUGR according to the umbilical artery Doppler flow pattern: a prospective cohort study
