22 Breastfeeding Across Geographical Areas in Italy

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate and compare the rates of initiation and duration of breastfeeding across geographical areas of Italy. Methods. A total of 2450 mothers, who delivered a healthy full term infant in Italy, were interviewed through the first 12 months after delivery about feeding practices. Breastfeeding was classified in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO). Adherence to the WHO ten steps to successful breastfeeding was further assessed. Chi-square and log-rank tests, logistic and Cox regressions were used for the statistical analysis. Results. Breastfeeding started in 91% of mothers, ranging from 85% (Sicilia) to 93% (North-east, South). At discharge the rate of exclusive breastfeeding was 77%, ranging from 57% (Sicilia) to 81% (North-east, Sardinia). Mean duration of breastfeeding ranged from 3.1 (Sicilia) to 6.0 months (Sardinia). Mean duration of exclusive breastfeeding ranged from 1.8 (Sicilia) to 2.6 months (North-east and Sardinia). Lower adherence to the WHO steps and less favorable socio-demographic characteristics, especially maternal lower education level, smoking habits and overweight, influenced negatively both breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion. Differences in duration of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding across geographical areas of Italy require planning of strategies for improvement, possibly taking into account for the WHO steps and socio-demographic characteristics.