Smits, L et al. Journal of Psychosomatic Research 61(5): 715-717, Nov 2006.
Abstract: http://www.jpsychores.com/ Massage intervention for promoting mental and physical health in infants aged under six months This review of nine studies suggests that infant massage has no effect on growth, but provides some evidence suggestive of improved mother-infant interaction, improved sleep and relaxation, reduced crying and a beneficial impact on a number of physiological processes.
There is no evidence of any impact on infant attachment, temperament, psychomotor or mental development.
Underdown, A et al. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Issue 4, Oct 2006. Abstract: http://www3.interscience.wiley.com, publication = Cochrane Library Multiple serotonergic brainstem abnormalities in sudden infant death syndrome This US study of victims of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) found that they may have had a genetic brain abnormality that prevents the detection of insufficient oxygen levels in the body. Scientists believe they have found the clearest evidence yet of an underlying genetic cause for cot death. The preliminary neurochemical evidence may also help explain the increased vulnerability of boys to SIDS.
Paterson, D et al. Journal of the American Medical Association 296(17): 2124-2132, Nov 1 2006. Abstract: http://jama.ama-assn.org/ Physical activity to prevent obesity in young children: cluster randomised controlled trial This study took place in 36 Glasgow nurseries, the participants being 545 children in their pre-school year. An enhanced physical activity programme took place in half of the nurseries (three 30-minute sessions a week over 24 weeks), plus home-based health education aimed at increasing physical activity through play and reducing sedentary behaviour. Children in the intervention group had significantly higher performance in movement skills tests than control children at a six-month follow-up. But the results showed that while physical activity can significantly improve motor skills, it did not reduce body mass index in young children.
Reilly, J et al. BMJ Online, 6 Oct 2006. Abstract: http://www.bmjjournals.com/ These results provide tentative evidence to support current practice on the teaching of infant massage in the community during the first six months of life, but fall short of the evidence needed to recommend universal provision.
