Background: Exclusive breastfeeding is globally promoted as a preventive health measure. However, an increasing incidence of jaundice among exclusively breastfed neonates has been observed. In Jos, Nigeria, anecdotal evidence suggests a rise in jaundice cases among breastfed infants during their first week of life. This study investigates the relationship between neonatal jaundice and the biochemical composition of maternal breast milk in Jos, Nigeria. Objective: To evaluate the role of maternal milk protein status and other milk constituents in the development of neonatal jaundice among exclusively breastfed full-term infants. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 152 participants, comprising of 76 neonates (38 jaundiced and 38 healthy controls) and their corresponding 76 mothers at Jos University Teaching Hospital. Biochemical analyses were conducted on maternal breast milk (albumin, proteins, casein, fat, lactose, enzymes) and infant serum (bilirubin, albumin, proteins, enzymes). Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney tests with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Maternal breast milk from mothers of jaundiced infants showed significantly lower protein (0.73 ± 0.07 g/100ml), albumin (0.62 ± 0.04 g/100ml), and casein (1.6 ± 0.12 g/100ml) levels compared to controls (p < 0.05). Serum albumin and alkaline phosphatase levels were also significantly lower in jaundiced infants (p < 0.05). Elevated unconjugated bilirubin (10.70 ± 0.98 mg/100ml) was the predominant form of bilirubin in jaundiced neonates, accounting for 93% of total bilirubin levels. No significant differences were observed in carbohydrate or fat content of breast milk between groups. Conclusion: The study highlights a potential link between lower maternal milk protein levels and the occurrence of neonatal jaundice. Interventions aimed at enhancing maternal nutrition and promoting more frequent breastfeeding may mitigate the risk. Further research should explore additional maternal and neonatal factors contributing to this condition.
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