Is It True That Women Who Breastfeed For At Least A Year Decrease Their Risk Of Developing Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Paula Rackoff, M.D., Assistant Chief, Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Medical Center
January 2, 2008

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Question: Is it true that women who breastfeed for at least a year decrease their risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis?

Dr. Paula Rackoff answers the question: 'Breastfeeding And Rheumatoid Risk?'

Answer: Actually it is true that breastfeeding is somewhat protective against rheumatoid arthritis and it's thought to be related to prolactin levels. There are many other advantages to breastfeeding and that appears to be one of the advantages.

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