Mode of delivery and offspring body mass index, overweight and obesity in adult life: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

It has been suggested that mode of delivery, a potentially powerful influence upon long-term health, may affect later life body mass index (BMI). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of Caesarean section (CS) and vaginal delivery (VD) on offspring BMI, overweight (BMI>25) and obesity (BMI>30) in adulthood. Secondary outcomes were subgroup analyses by gender and type of CS (in-labour/emergency, pre-labour/elective).

Methods

Using a predefined search strategy, Pubmed, Google Scholar and Web of Science were searched for any article published before 31(st) March 2012, along with references of any studies deemed relevant. Studies were selected if they reported birth characteristics and long-term offspring follow-up into adulthood. Aggregate

SUBMITTER: Darmasseelane K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3935836 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature