Early introduction of fish decreases the risk of eczema in infants
2009

Early Fish Introduction Reduces Eczema Risk in Infants

Sample size: 4921 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Bernt Alm, Åberg N, Erdes L, Möllborg P, Pettersson R, Norvenius S G, Goksör E, Wennergren G

Primary Institution: University of Gothenburg

Hypothesis

Does early introduction of fish decrease the risk of eczema in infants?

Conclusion

Introducing fish before 9 months of age decreases the risk of eczema in infants.

Supporting Evidence

  • 20.9% of infants had eczema at 1 year of age.
  • Familial occurrence of eczema was a significant risk factor.
  • Introducing fish before 9 months reduced eczema risk.

Takeaway

If babies eat fish before they turn 9 months old, they are less likely to get eczema, which is a skin problem.

Methodology

The study used a prospective, longitudinal cohort design with questionnaires sent to families at 6 and 12 months of age.

Potential Biases

Potential recall bias in questionnaire responses.

Limitations

The study relied on parental reports for eczema diagnosis, which may introduce recall bias.

Participant Demographics

Infants born in western Sweden in 2003, with a sample size of 4921.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.001

Confidence Interval

95% CI 1.50 to 2.33 for familial eczema, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.94 for early fish introduction.

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1136/adc.2008.140418

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