Breastfeeding and Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Later Life

Authors: Lena Tschiderer, Assoc. Prof., Dipl.-Ing, PhD, Peter Willeit, Univ. Prof., Dr med univ, MPhil, PhD

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease, which includes conditions such as heart attack and stroke, is the leading cause of death worldwide. In a recent research project, our team at the EpiCenter Innsbruck at the Medical University of Innsbruck analysed data from over a million mothers from different countries. The results showed that mothers who had breastfed at least once in their lives (‘ever breastfed’) had an 11% lower relative risk of developing cardiovascular disease later in life than mothers who had never breastfed. They also showed that a longer breastfeeding duration may have a positive effect on the risk of cardiovascular disease. Why this association exists is not yet fully understood. While the results of this study revealed a statistical correlation, it has not yet been possible to prove whether this correlation is causal. There are several hypotheses about potentially protective mechanisms that breastfeeding may activate. One theory is based on evidence that breastfeeding may have a positive effect on various metabolic factors, such as lipid levels, insulin balance and fat distribution, which are also associated with cardiovascular disease. Hormones such as oxytocin may also have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Raising awareness about the positive aspects of breastfeeding for maternal health is important, as this could potentially influence whether mothers decide to breastfeed.

Keywords: breastfeeding, heart attack, stroke, cardiovascular disease, relative risk

How to cite: Tschiderer L, Willeit P: Breastfeeding and Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Later Life. Lactation & Breastfeeding 2026;1:08.

Author Information and Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest

Lena TschidererLena Tschiderer is an Associate Professor in the field of epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases at the EpiCenter Innsbruck at the Medical University of Innsbruck. Her research focuses on gender-specific aspects of cardiovascular disease. This work includes looking at factors specific to women, such as menarche, pregnancy and menopause, and investigating the role these factors may play in relation to cardiovascular disease.
The author declares that she has no conflicts of interest or financial relationships with commercial products.

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Peter WilleitPeter Willeit is Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health and Director of the EpiCenter Innsbruck at the Medical University of Innsbruck. He is an expert in the field of cardiovascular disease epidemiology and has led numerous national and international studies as well as interdisciplinary research consortia.
The author declares that she has no conflicts of interest or financial relationships with commercial products.