Comparison of Feeding Options for HIV-Exposed Infants: A Retrospective Cohort Study

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To compare growth, anemia prevalence, and sickness frequency in HIV-exposed uninfected infants on different feeding modes. Methods: In this retrospectivecohort study, 109 HIV-exposed uninfected infants registered atour center were categorizedintothree groups as per their feeding mode during first 6 months viz. exclusively breast fed(n=50), animal milk fed (n=40) and commercial infant formula fed (n=19). Theiranthropometric parameters, hemoglobin and frequency of sickness at the age of 6 monthswere compared. Results: There were no significant inter-group differences in the weightfor age, weight for length, length for age z-scores (P=0.16, 0.37 and 0.12, respectively);proportion of infants with underweight (P=0.63), wasting (P=0.82), or stunting (P=0.82),and mean hemoglobin levels among the 3 groups at 6 month of age. Animal milk fed andformula fed infant had increased risk of sickness compared to exclusively breastfed infants(OR 2.5 and 2.49, respectively; P<0.01). Conclusions: In circumstances wherebreastfeeding is not feasible or preferred, animal milk feeding offers a viable alternative tocommercial infant feeding formula in HIV exposed infants.