The Chronicle Telegram in Elyria, Ohio

Study links early broad spectrum antibiotics to higher obesity risk

Researchers analyze medical records of 64 580 children around Philadelphia and find that those given broad spectrum antibiotics in the first two years, or four or more antibiotic courses, show higher obesity rates between ages two and five. The risk rises to 17 percent for four or more prescriptions including a broad spectrum drug. The study, in JAMA Pediatrics, suggests early gut microbiome disruption may influence weight, with ethnic and socioeconomic adjustments.