IMPORTANCE OF EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING IN PREVENTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Abstract

Objective: to analyze, through an integrative literature review, the importance of exclusive breastfeeding in the prevention of atopic dermatitis, seeking scientific evidence to support this practice as a public health strategy. Methods: an integrative literature review was performed in the PubMed, Virtual Health Library and Capes Periodicals Portal databases, using the descriptors "breastfeeding", "atopic dermatitis" and "disease prevention". Inclusion criteria included articles published in the last 5 years, in Portuguese and English, with observational or experimental design. Studies with poorly representative samples or without a focus on the relationship between breastfeeding and atopic dermatitis were excluded. Data analysis was performed descriptively, summarizing the main evidence found. Results and Discussion: The studies analyzed suggest that exclusive breastfeeding for at least 6 months is associated with a lower incidence of atopic dermatitis, especially in infants with a family history of atopy. The bioactive components of breast milk, such as immunoglobulins, growth factors, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, demonstrate a fundamental role in the maturation of the immune system and in the modulation of the inflammatory response. However, the heterogeneity of the studies and the presence of confounding factors, such as early introduction of complementary foods and environmental exposures, make it difficult to accurately determine the protective effect of EBF. Final Considerations: The integrative review showed that exclusive breastfeeding can function as a protective factor against atopic dermatitis, reinforcing the importance of policies to encourage breastfeeding. However, more longitudinal, and controlled studies are needed to consolidate this relationship, in addition to educational strategies to increase adherence to breastfeeding in the first months of life.