Breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of these health problems In all infants In premature infants In mothers Ear infections Necrotizing enterocolitis (severe bowel injury) Type 2 Diabetes Stomach viruses & diarrhea Feeding intolerance Breast cancer Respiratory infections Hospital-acquired infections Ovarian cancer Asthma Longer hospital stays Postpartum depression Atopic dermatitis Developmental delays Metabolic syndrome (obesity, diabetes & high blood pressure) Types 1 & 2 Diabetes Lower IQ on cognitive tests Bleeding after birth Obesity Weight retention after birth Childhood leukemia Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Source “Breastfeeding & Maternal & Infant Health Outcomes in Developed Countries.” Evidence Report/Technology Assessment # 153, Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ), U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, www.ahrq.gov