A good reference for infant formula-related mortality is Rogan et al, 1991 (Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology vol 13:228-240) where they derive 420 deaths per 100,000 for bottle-fed vs. breastfed infants. 

Infant formula related risks are also discussed in a recent article I published in Pediatric Clinics of NA (Oct 2001, vol 48(5): 1113-1127).  The article (Parents worried about breast milk contamination:  What is best for baby?) discusses the risks of exposure to contaminants in breast milk compared to the risk of formula feeding.  The conclusion is that unless the mother has high level occupational exposures, extreme dietary exposures, or unusual residential exposures to hazardous or toxic chemicals, breastfeeding is overwhelmingly the preferred choice compared to formula feeding.

Contact me privately if you would like a copy of the article and cannot find it in your medical library or resource center.  Judy Schreiber 





Judith S. Schreiber, Ph.D.
Senior Public Health Scientist
Office of the Attorney General
Bureau of Environmental Protection
The Capitol
Albany NY 12224
518-474-4819 desk
518-474-9267 sec
518-473-2534 fax
email [log in to unmask]  

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