South Middlesex Times

Antibiotics are widely prescribed to young children for infections like ear infections and pneumonia. However, these medications might disrupt their digestive microbiome during a crucial developmental period, potentially leading to various health issues in the future. A study by Rutgers Health, published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, has explored this matter by analyzing antibiotic exposure data from over one million babies in the United Kingdom and tracking diagnoses of chronic pediatric conditions until the age of 12.

The researchers concluded that frequent antibiotic use before the age of 2 increases the likelihood of developing conditions such as asthma, food allergies, and hay fever in later years. This was evident even in siblings who had varying experiences with antibiotic treatment.

According to Daniel Horton, the lead author of the study and a member of the Center for Pharmacoepidemiology and Treatment Science at Rutgers Institute for Health, "Antibiotics play a critical role in combatting bacterial infections, but physicians should be judicious when prescribing antibiotics to children under 2, as frequent use may affect long-term health outcomes."

The study also investigated other conditions but found no consistent link between antibiotics and autoimmune diseases or neurodevelopmental disorders, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder. However, there was some indication of a link to intellectual disabilities, which warrants further investigation.

Horton emphasized, "Antibiotics are important and sometimes life-saving medicines, but not all infections in young kids need to be treated with antibiotics. Parents should continue to consult with their children’s doctors on the best course of care."

The team's coauthors included experts from Rutgers Health, NYU Medical Center, and Stanford University School of Medicine, reinforcing the study's comprehensive academic collaboration.