A large-scale cohort study conducted in Israel found that longer breastfeeding duration, particularly exclusive breastfeeding for at least 6 months, is significantly associated with improved developmental outcomes in children. Children breastfed for at least 6 months exhibited fewer delays in attaining language, social, and motor developmental milestones compared to those breastfed for less than 6 months. The study's findings were strengthened by a within-family analysis, which showed that longer breastfeeding was associated with reduced odds of developmental delays and diagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions. These results support current WHO recommendations for breastfeeding and have implications for early child development and public health initiatives.

Source: JAMA Network Open