Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases: The Role of Neonatal Characteristics

Non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) are still the major cause of mortality and morbidity in young adults.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of neonatal characteristics on NCD development.
A questionnaire was assessed to evaluate the influence of cesarean section (CS), breastfeeding and prematurity on development of some NCDs. The questionnaire was distributed through an online form.
We received 6,379 responses. According to data, CS was not associated with the development of asthma and allergies, celiac disease, type I and II diabetes or obesity and a tendency to be overweight. The study revealed an inverse association between breastfeeding and risk of asthma and allergies, type II diabetes, obesity and a tendency to be overweight. No association was found in relation to type I diabetes or celiac disease. Preterm birth was not associated with development of asthma and allergy, celiac disease or type I and II diabetes, but seems to have a protective role in the development of obesity.
Many neonatal characteristics could influence the development of NCDs during life. These characteristics could have a direct or indirect influence on neonatal gut establishment with subsequent health implications later in life. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our conclusions.