Breast is best… for a child’s future earning potential

THE phrase ‘breast is best’ is used to promote the health benefits of breastfeeding, such as a boosted immune system, but now it seems it may boost future earning power too.

New research from Queen’s University Belfast shows that adults who were breastfed as babies have higher incomes.

The study found those who were breastfed earned 10% more by the time they were 50.

The lead researcher said not promoting breastfeeding could cost governments a fortune in the longrun, as it may have a significant benefit for exchequer returns.

‘Our initial results from the study suggest that a 10 percentage point increase in the number of breastfed babies in Northern Ireland each year could generate around £100million in additional lifetime earnings, of which around £20million could be expected to be collected in the form of tax revenue,’ Dr Mark McGovern said.

Researchers tracked 9,000 babies born in England, Wales and Scotland in 1958. The research team included academics from Queen’s University Belfast, University College Dublin, University College London, and Cass Business School in London.

The research factored in the economic background of the parents to make sure they got an accurate reading. It found breastfed children from a wealthy background went on to earn more than bottlefed children from a wealthy background.

The researchers said their findings support government investment on education about the benefits of breastfeeding. Researcher Dr Slawa Rokicki, from UCD, said: ‘Having evidence on the economic benefits of breastfeeding supports the argument for greater resources being invested in public health campaigns and breastfeeding support services.

‘Breastfeeding may not be right for everyone, but for those who do want to breastfeed, increased support and information provided by these campaigns could help more women in doing so.’