Study of Estrogen Effects in Infants on Soy Formula
Author Information
Author(s): Judy C. Bernbaum, David M. Umbach, N. Beth Ragan, Jeanne L. Ballard, Janet I. Archer, Holly Schmidt-Davis, Walter J. Rogan
Primary Institution: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Hypothesis
Does soy formula prolong the physiologic estrogenization of newborns?
Conclusion
The study found that examination of infants for plausible effects of estrogens is valid and repeatable.
Supporting Evidence
- Breast tissue was maximal at birth and decreased with age.
- Vaginal wall cells showed maximal estrogen effect at birth and then reverted.
- Soy-fed girls tended to show higher vaginal maturation index at 6 months.
Takeaway
This study looked at how soy formula might affect baby boys and girls by checking their breast and genital development.
Methodology
The study involved physical examinations of infants to assess breast and genital development, measuring breast adipose tissue, breast buds, and testicular volume.
Potential Biases
Examiners were not blinded to feeding regimen, which could introduce bias.
Limitations
The study was small and primarily cross-sectional, limiting the ability to make reliable inferences about feeding regimens.
Participant Demographics
72 children, 4% Asian or Pacific Islander, 70% black not of Hispanic origin, 26% white not of Hispanic origin.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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