Dr. Liang Wangs Work Featured in Childhood Obesity

Childhood Obesity has featured an article written by Dr. Liang Wang, Associate Professor in the Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology in the College of Public Health, during Childhood Obesity Awareness month. The article, “Breastfeeding Reduces Childhood Obesity Risks”, was originally published in June 2017. Co-authors include Doctor of Public Health student Candice Collins, Master of Public Health alumna Melanie Ratliff, and faculty from Claremont Graduate University and Ball State University.   

September is recognized as Childhood Obesity Awareness month to bring attention to the importance of researching and preventing childhood obesity, so as to decrease related health problems.  The article was chosen as a “high-impact article” for “making a difference in the fight against childhood obesity.” 

The article highlights the benefits of breastfeeding children and factors associated with breastfeeding. The authors found that nonsmoking, white, married mothers in households where both parents are present, and with income above the poverty line, were more likely to breastfeed their children at 1 month of age.

The authors also examined the effects of breastfeeding at 1 month and 6 months on the overweight and obese status of children at 24 months to grade 6. Analysis showed that breastfeeding at 1 month reduced risk for childhood obesity by 36% from ages 24 months through grade 6. Breastfeeding past the age of 6 months was associated with a 42% decreased risk for childhood obesity. Findings highlight the need to promote breastfeeding as a prevention for childhood obesity.

Childhood Obesity is a peer-reviewed journal with a 2016 impact factor of 2.243 that delivers actionable, real-world obesity prevention and weight management strategies for children and adolescents. Health disparities and cultural sensitivities are addressed, and plans and protocols are recommended to effect change at the family, school, and community level.