Letters to the Editor

Abstract

Fallot et al1 report fewer hospitalizations among breast-fed infants. Since breast-feeding has been correlated with socioeconomic status,2 we believe caution should be exercised in interpreting this finding. Previously documented factors may be involved, eg, parental cigarette smoking,3 crowding,4 bottle propping,5 or numerous other variables as suggested in Sauls' thorough analysis.6 Close examination of Fallot's Table 1 fails to support the implication that breast-feeding had any beneficial effects among the "clinic" patients. Application of the X2 test to this group of patients shows no significant effect to be associated with breast-feeding (P > .5).