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Breastfeeding Linked to Lower Antimicrobial Resistance in Infants, Study Finds
A systematic review highlights that breastfeeding plays a crucial role in shaping microbial colonization and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles among neonates. Breastfeeding reduces infection-driven antibiotic use, which may minimize the emergence of resistant strains in early human life.
A systematic analysis has found that breastfeeding plays a crucial role in shaping microbial colonization, immunity development, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles among neonates. Studies show breastfed infants require fewer antibiotic prescriptions in their first months, largely from a reduced incidence of common infections. Observational data demonstrates that exclusive breastfeeding is associated with lower rates of gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infections, decreasing reliance on antibiotic therapy. Research also found that early exposure to formula milk was linked with higher colonization by pathogens and a greater AMR burden compared to exclusive breastfeeding. Screening results suggest that antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) can be transmitted through breast milk, thereby influencing the neonatal resistome. Some studies reported ARG prevalence in specific pathogens, often associated with antibiotic exposure.
Key Facts
- Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in shaping microbial colonization and antimicrobial resistance profiles among neonates.
- Breastfed infants require fewer antibiotic prescriptions in the first months of life due to reduced infections.
- Exclusive breastfeeding is associated with lower rates of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections.
- Early exposure to formula milk was linked with higher colonization by pathogens and a greater AMR burden compared to exclusive breastfeeding.
- Antimicrobial resistance genes can be transmitted through breast milk, influencing the neonatal resistome.
- Some studies reported ARG prevalence in specific pathogens like E. pneumoniae and Streptococcus, often linked to antibiotic exposure.
- Clinically important ARGs, including those conferring resistance to ESBLs and carbapenemases, are present in breast milk, especially in preterm infants.