The Impact of a Breastfeeding Promotion Intervention on Rapid Weight Gain among African American Infants

Background/Objective. To evaluate the impact of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) on rapid weight gain (RWG) among infants of African American women enrolled in a breastfeeding promotion intervention. Methods. African American mothers in the 2nd or 3rd trimester who consented and attended four 30-minute breastfeeding promotion sessions prospectively provided breastfeeding and physical measurements at birth, four-, six-, and twelve-months. Results. Mean age of mothers was 28.74±6.0 years, range 15–42 years, 62(38.8%) primiparous, 59 (36.9%) had ≤high school diploma, and 68 (42.5%) annual income <$15,000. Exclusive breastfeeding at birth, three, and six months were 104 (62.7%), 44 (34.4%), and 21 (17.9%). Rapid weight gain at four months and six months were 42 (36.2%) and 77 (74.8%). Difference in rapid weight gain at four months for babies breastfed up to three months vs. those who were not was significant, p<.04. Maternal demographics did not predict RWG in multiple regression modelling. The incidence of overweight at 12 months for babies who experienced RWG at four months vs. those who did not was significantly different, p<.001. Conclusion. Exclusive breastfeeding for six months was associated with reduced risk of RWG in early infancy.