Abstract
Breastfeeding is an important determinant of child survival and strategy for improving child health in developing countries. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to 2 years or beyond.We analyzed nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from 21 countries between 1990 and 2011. Countries had at least 2 years of data, including one from 2008 or later for a total of 83 surveys. Our sample includes singleton, last‐born infants 0‐36 months living with their mother (n=185,469). We compared median breastfeeding duration calculated from current status data.Trends within countries did not exhibit meaningful patterns. Median duration changed by <1 month in 43% of intervals. Significant differences are seen between countries; 14% of country‐years had medians 2 years.Despite progress promoting awareness of breastfeeding, adherence to recommendations is not common. Analyzing DHS data is a unique opportunity to assess trends and explore noncompliance. These observations can be used to guide promotion efforts. Future studies should exam the influence of social, economic and demographic characteristics on breastfeeding duration.Grant Funding Source: Supported by an educational grant from Wyeth Nutrition
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