Abstract
Background: Although breastfeeding has been extensively documented to confer health benefits to infants in the early stages of their lives, the sustained influence that it has on autistic traits throughout childhood remains unclear. This study endeavors to explore the correlation between the length of exclusive breastfeeding, the overall duration of breastfeeding, and the manifestation of autistic traits in Chinese children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 17,382 three-year-olds residing in Longhua District, Shenzhen, China. The participants' socio-economic status, breastfeeding patterns, and autistic traits were recorded using questionnaires. Breastfeeding durations were analyzed both as continuous and categorical variables. Results: Of the 17,382 children studied, 666 exhibited autistic traits. Exclusive breastfeeding for ≥2 months was notably associated with a decreased risk of developing autistic traits when it was assessed using continuous measures. Furthermore, children who were breastfed for 13 months or longer exhibited a lower risk of developing autistic traits, as compared to those who were breastfed for 6 months or less, when this was measured using categorical methods. Similarly, when it was assessed using continuous measures, children who were breastfed for at least 8 months also demonstrated a reduced risk of developing autistic traits. Linear relationships were discernible between exclusive breastfeeding duration, overall breastfeeding duration, and autistic traits. Conclusions: Exclusive breastfeeding for a period from 2 to 6 months, coupled with extended breastfeeding lasting for at least 8 months, demonstrated a beneficial effect in alleviating autistic traits among Chinese children. These findings contribute to refining and strengthening the existing recommendations concerning breastfeeding practices.