Breastfeeding duration not associated with average adiposity levels in 6-year-olds to 13-year-olds, but adequate breastfeeding may be associated with lower adiposity in the upper percentiles.

Context This study addresses the relationship between breastfeeding in infancy and being overweight or obese in childhood. In some previous studies, it has been found that breastfed infants are less likely to become overweight or obese in later life, while in others, the opposite has been found. Other studies have found no difference in rates of overweight or obesity for breastfed and non-breastfed infants. According to the World Health Organisation, childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century. The worldwide prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity has increased from 4.2% in 1990 to 6.7% in 2010. The prevalence is expected to rise to 9.1% by 2020.