Abstract
Our objective was to determine if modifiable factors mediate the often‐reported relationship between ethnicity and breastfeeding (BF) practices. We interviewed 485 nulliparae at 34–40 wk gestation regarding: exposure to BF by others (BFE): never, a few times, often; comfort with idea of BF (BFC) and idea of formula‐feeding (FFC): very uncomfortable=1, to very comfortable=4; and BF self‐efficacy (BFSE). The Infant Feeding Intentions (IFI) Scale measured strength of intentions to exclusively BF. Subjects were 42% white, 23% Hispanic, 16% black, 13% Asian and 6% mixed. In a cumulative odds logit model with education level (ED), the adjusted odds (AOR [95% CI]) of being in a higher IFI category were 0.55 [0.32–0.93] for black vs. white women (not significant for other ethnicities). Black women had higher levels of FFC (AOR [CI] 1.94 [1.13–3.31]), but similar levels of BFC (1.33 [0.74–2.38]). Overall, increased BFE was predictive of higher BFC and BFSE, and lower FFC (p<.0001 for all). FFC, BFC, BFSE and ED explained 42% of variation in IFI (p<.0001), with FFC the strongest predictor: AOR of higher IFI level tripled with each successive decrease in FFC level (p<.001). Ethnicity was not significant when added to this model. Thus, modifiable factors mediate the relationship between ethnicity and IFI. Campaigns stressing risks of FF may be more effective than those stressing BF benefits for increasing BF rates.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
