COMPARISON OF ATOPIC DERMATITS IN CHILDREN WITH AND WITHOUT EXCLUSIVE BREAST FEEDING AGED 1 TO 5 YEARS PRESENTING AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background: Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease common in children, which is becoming more prevalent in the world. Breastfeeding and infant feeding, in general, are potentially effective in the growth of allergic diseases such as AD, although the evidence is not conclusive.

Objective: To find out the rate of exclusive breastfeeding and compare the prevalence rates of atopic dermatitis in children exposed to other types of feeding (breastfeeding, formula feeding, and cow’s milk feeding).

Methodology: The study was a descriptive type of cross-sectional study that was carried out in the Department of Pediatric Medicine, The Children Hospital, Lahore, during July 2025 to October 2025. Non-probability consecutive sampling was used to enroll 263 children between the age of 1 and 5 years. History feeding was collected, and children were divided into the breastfed group, formula-fed group, and cow milk fed group. Atropic dermatitis was determined by the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), a score of 7.1 and above was classified as diagnostic. Data were calculated by use of SPSS version 26. Comparison of frequencies has been done using Chi-square test, where p 0.05 is regarded as significant.

Results: The frequency of exclusive breastfeeding was found to be approximately consistent with national estimates. Atopic dermatitis was observed more frequently among formula-fed children compared to exclusively breastfed children, while cow’s milk-fed children showed intermediate prevalence. A statistically significant association was observed between feeding type and occurrence of AD (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Atopic dermatitis in early childhood seems to be supported by exclusive breastfeeding. Allergic diseases in pediatrics can be alleviated by promoting breastfeeding practices.