IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-9-4-25018 Original Research Paper Association between Exclusive Breastfeeding and Manifestation of Allergy in Toddlers in Pediatric Clinic of RST Wirasakti Kupang, Indonesia Clive Steward Susilo Dr. April 2020 9 4 01 02 ABSTRACT

Allergies may induce serious health complications and can interfere with the child’s growth and development process. Allergy in children is also influenced by the mother’s breastfeeding behavior. Objective: To investigate the association between history of receiving exclusive breastfeeding and manifestation of allergy in toddlers. Method: Observational descriptive–analytical study with cross–sectional design. Analyzed using chi square test. Results: There was a significant association between history of being exclusively breastfed and manifestation of allergy in toddlers (P = 0.012). There was also a significant association between history of allergy in parents and manifestations of allergy in toddlers (P = 0.05). Exposure to cigarette smoke, pets, history of antibiotic use, and history of caesarean section delivery were not associated with manifestation of allergy in toddlers. Conclusion: There was a significant association between history of being exclusively breastfed and history of allergy in parents with manifestation of allergy in toddlers