Introduction: Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is the leading cause of inflammatory skin diseases of childhood worldwide, which can impact on
the quality of life of children and their families. Breastfeeding and infant feeding practices can play a role in the development of AD.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between AD and breastfeeding practices and the early introduction of
solid food and to identify other potential risk factors to AD among children in Arar City, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This case-control
study was carried out on children below 7-years old between September 2019 to March 2020. A structured questionnaire completed
by mothers/guardians was used to collect information on socio-demographic and birth data, family history of atopy, feeding pattern
and antibiotic administration during the first year of life. The questionnaire developed by the International Study of Asthma and
Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) was used to investigate the manifestations of AD. Results: The study recruited 106 AD children and 99
matched controls. The risk of AD was doubled in children who have never been breastfed (P=0.023). The cessation of exclusive
breast feeding before 2-months, exposure to animal milk during the first year of life and positive father history of AD were risk
factors for AD. Exposure to solid food, infant formula and antibiotics after 6-months, highly educated mothers and high (more than
satisfactory) family income were protective factors. Conclusion: Breastfeeding with delayed exposure to complementary food after 4-
6 months, highly educated mothers and high family income reduced the risk of AD, while positive father history of AD increased the risk. |
