Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of breastfeeding and formula feeding in patients with reactive airway diseases.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was done at the Department of Pediatric Medicine, Nishtar Medical University and Hospital, Multan from July to December 2021. A total of 95 children of both genders, aged between month to 2 years who were admitted during the study period with symptoms of reactive airway diseases were enrolled. Presence of reactive airway disease was confirmed with history, clinical examination, chest x-ray and laboratory investigations. Frequency of breastfeeding and formula feeding in patients was noted.
Results: Out of 95 cases, 58 (61.1%) were male while 37 (38.9%) females. Mean age was 10.8±6.2 months and 49 (51.6%) belonged to urban areas. Monthly family income was less than 25,000 in 85 (89.5%) children. Mothers of 56 (58.9%) children were illiterate. We found formula feeding in 70 (73.7%) children while 25 (26.3%) children were having breast feeding. Rural area of residence was significantly associated with formula feeding (55.7% vs. 28.0%, p=0.017).
Conclusion: Frequency of formula feeding was high in patients presenting with reactive airway diseases. Clinicians treating children with reactive airway diseases should advise exclusive breast feeding to mothers to avoid frequent admissions.

Key words: Breast feeding, formula feeding, reactive airway disease.