If you are an expecting parent, one of the first things that you want to know is whether or not your child is going to be a healthy one.
In an American study into allergy and asthma rates, there were questions being raised about the links between C-section babies and the likelihood that it would contribute to asthma and allergies. Furthermore, there were contrasts between formula-fed babies and breast-fed ones.
“This is a first look at what may be a major development,” said Dr. Malcolm Sears, one of the study’s authors and a leading asthma and allergy researcher at McMaster and St. Joseph’s Healthcare. “It shows clear differences.”
Because of the growing number of C-sections now being accountable during childbirth, Sears questions as to whether or not this impacts on the baby’s health. This is due to the bacteria that was found in the guts of 4 month old babies, which may or may not contribute to the possibilities of developing allergies.
What is difficult to determine is whether or not the gut bacteria in children’s digestive systems are contributing to asthma or allergies; however the significance thus far is in the fact that the bacteria is indeed linked to it.
So what does this mean for the future?
If researchers can pinpoint the significance of the differences, then the symptoms can be treated quicker – perhaps on a permanent basis. The significance of where the problems originate from is a good step in the right direction, firing many answers into the field of science. Only more can arise from such a spectacular feat of research.
If they can get the funding.
Sears explained, “That’s a major concern. These studies are very expensive. But there is a wealth of opportunity here.”
The research will take an extra $2.5 billion in order to expand their scope – but for many expecting families, the dynamic, if not fruitful venture may prove to be worthwhile.
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