¿La lactancia exclusiva es un factor protector en las infecciones respiratorias? Revisión sistemática de la literatura

Introduction: Breastfeeding (BF) is an ancient practice in most cultures and in most mammalian animals. In this study we hypothetically recognize it as a protective factor against respiratory infections. For this reason, a scientific search was undertaken on the literature related to its effects on respiratory health in children under 5 years of age. Studies from around the world were considered, with no restrictions on race or culture. Studies were included that addressed the entire respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, and ears. Objectives: We sought to determine evidence of the benefits of breastfeeding (BF) and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in the prevention of respiratory tract diseases in children under 5 years of age. Methods: Pubmed, Medline, Ovid, BVS databases were consulted, as well as Scielo and Science Direct search engines. Randomized clinical trials were identified that studied the effect of breastfeeding and respiratory infections, the results obtained were 275 studies, of which four studies presented low risk of bias and high methodological quality. Conclusions: Breastfeeding evidently prevents the appearance of respiratory infections, but more studies are needed in this regard. There is controversy between the studies regarding the benefits, which may be related to selection and information biases.