Initiation Of Complementary Feeding Research Articles

Minimum acceptable diet use and its associated factors among children aged 6-23 in Ghana: a mixed effect analysis using Ghana Demographic and Health Survey.

Inappropriate feeding practices are a major contributor to child malnutrition. To monitor the feeding practices of young children, current and frequent studies are required. However, as far as our searches are concerned, there is a scarcity of up-to-date information on attainment of the minimum acceptable diet and its predictors in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude of attainment of the minimum acceptable diet and its associated factors among children aged 6-23 in Ghana by using the most recent data. Secondary data analysis was conducted based on the demographic and health survey data conducted in Ghana in 2022. A total weighted sample of 2,621 children aged 6-23 months in the 5 years preceding the survey was included in this study. A multi-level logistic regression model was used to identify the determinants of the minimum acceptable diet. The adjusted odds ratio at 95% Cl was computed to assess the strength and significance of the association between explanatory and outcome variables. Factors with a p-value of <0.05 are declared statistically significant. The national prevalence of the attainment of the minimum acceptable diet in Ghana was 26.40% (95% CI: 24.82-28.06). Child from mother with higher education (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.56-3.31) and father with higher education (AOR = 1.59; 95% CI: 1.04-2.41), Children having postnatal visit (AOR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.03-1.62), being in the child age of 9-11 months (AOR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.42-5.03) and 12-23 months (AOR = 3.62; 95% CI: 2.61-5.03), being in a middle (AOR = 1.66; 95% CI: 1.14-3.06), and rich wealth quintile (AOR = 2.06; 95% CI: 1.37-3.10), breastfed children (AOR = 3.30; 95% CI: 2.38-4.56), being in a high-community poverty (AOR = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.44-0.96), and being in the Savannah region (AOR = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.16-0.67) were factors significantly associated with the minimum acceptable diet use. Many children are still far behind in meeting the minimum acceptable diet in Ghana as per 90% of WHO-recommended coverage. Measures should be taken to optimize the minimum acceptable diet attainment in the country. Thus, policymakers, the government, and other relevant authorities should focus on the early initiation of complementary feeding, the Savannah region, further empowering women, and enhancing breast-feeding and household wealth status.

Timely initiation of complementary feeding and associated factors among mothers having children aged 6 to 24 months in North-West Ethiopia: a comparative cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe timely introduction of complementary foods during infancy is necessary for nutritional reasons, and to enable the transition from milk feeding to family foods. In the past years, despite efforts that have been put to increase the utilization of timely initiation of complementary feeding practice in Ethiopia, improvements are not satisfactory.ObjectiveTo compare the prevalence of timely initiation of complementary feeding and its associated factors among mothers who have Children 6–24 months in Debre Tabor town and rural Farta district, North-west Ethiopia, 2021.MethodsA community-based comparative cross-sectional study was employed from December 1/2020 to 30/ 2020 among 1100 mothers. Data were collected using a structured questioner and analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions. Logistic regression analysis with a 95% confidence interval carried out to determine the association between explanatory and the outcome variables. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsThe prevalence of timely initiation of complementary feeding among urban and rural mothers was 69.8% with (95% CI: 66%, 74%) and 51.9% with (95% CI: 48- 56%) respectively. Urban residence [AOR = 1.39, 95% CI: (1.02–1.94)], had antenatal care visits [AOR = 0.24 (95%CI: (0.13, 0.44)], had post natal care checkups [AOR = 0.44, 95%CI: (0. 27- 0.72)] and being a governmental employee [AOR = 2.82; 95% CI: (1.91–6.1)] were factors associated with timely initiation of complementary feeding among urban mothers. Whereas in rural settings: institutional delivery [(AOR = 2.21, CI: 1.35–3.65)], post natal care checkups [(AOR = 0.53, CI: (0.36–0.77)] being daily laborer [AOR = 3.47; 95% CI: (1.78–6.75)] were associated with timely initiation of complementary feeding.ConclusionThe prevalence of timely introduction of complementary feeding in children aged 6–24 months is still low in the study areas. There was also disparity between urban and rural mothers in which urban mothers practiced better.

Regulatory problems and associated factors among infants in Arba Minch health and demographic surveillance system sites, southern Ethiopia.

Infant regulatory problems are a common source of concern for parents, and they increase the risk of impaired infant-caregiver bonding. Despite their impact, they are often overlooked in Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of infant regulatory problems in Arba Minch Health and Demographic Surveillance System sites in southern Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 451 mother-infant pairs from February 15 to March 15, 2022. Regulatory problems were assessed using diagnostic interviews for regulatory problems. The data was collected using an open data kit Android application and analyzed with Stata version 17.0. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were computed to identify factors associated with each infant regulatory problem. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05. In this study, four hundred forty-nine mother-infant pairs were involved, with a response rate of 99.5%. The prevalence of excessive crying, feeding problems, and sleeping difficulties was 14.03% [95% CI: 10.95, 17.59], 20.04% [95% CI: 16.44, 24.05], and 13.59% [95% CI: 10.55, 17.11], respectively. Attending primary education (AOR: 2.54, 95% CI: 1.22, 5.32), high perceived social support (AOR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.89), feeding problems (AOR: 5.0, 95% CI: 2.65, 9.45), and depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) symptoms (AOR: 2.67, 95% CI: 1.19, 5.98) were associated with excessive crying. In addition, a family size of above five (AOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.03, 3.22), excessive crying (AOR: 3.76, 95% CI: 1.85, 7.65), sleeping problems (AOR: 2.29, 95% CI: 1.13, 4.65), comorbid DAS symptoms (AOR: 3.42, 95% CI: 1.64, 7.11), alcohol abuse (AOR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.42), and late initiation of complementary feeding (AOR: 2.67, 95% CI: 1.22, 5.88) were associated with feeding problems. Furthermore, attending primary education (AOR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.16, 4.77), feeding problems (AOR: 3.47, 95% CI: 1.86, 6.48), and comorbid DAS symptoms (AOR: 3.23, 95% CI: 1.53, 6.84) were associated with sleeping problems. Approximately one-third of infants encountered at least one regulatory problem. Level of education, perceived social support, feeding problems, and DAS symptoms were associated with excessive crying. Large family sizes, excessive crying, sleeping problems, comorbid DAS symptoms, alcohol abuse and, late initiation of complementary feeding increase the likelihood of feeding problems. Moreover, attending primary education, feeding problems, and comorbid DAS symptoms increase the odds of sleeping problems. Continuous guidance and support on infant soothing techniques, cognitive and behavioral therapy, and counselling on appropriate coping strategies for postpartum women are imperative to reduce the burden of infant regulatory problems.

Early feeding practices and eating behaviour in preschool children: The CORALS cohort

AbstractThis study aimed to investigate if the duration of breastfeeding and the method at initiation of complementary feeding affect eating behaviour in children aged 3−6 years. This is a cross‐sectional analysis from the Childhood Obesity Risk Assessment Longitudinal Study project, an ongoing longitudinal cohort study that aims to identify childhood obesity risk factors in Spanish children. A total of 1215 children aged 3−6 years were included. Breastfeeding duration and the method of initiation of complementary feeding [baby‐led weaning (BLW), traditional/spoon or mixed method] were evaluated. Eating behaviour at 3−6 years was assessed with the Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire. Generalized linear models were fitted to assess the association between the aforementioned exposures and eating behaviour.Children breastfed for ≥4 months were less likely to be fussy eaters at 3−6 years compared to those breastfed for &lt;1 month (OR: 0.86 95% CI: 0.76−0.98; p = 0.031). Compared to those children using the traditional/spoon‐feeding method, those initiating complementary feeding through BLW or through a mixed approach were more likely to have higher scores on the enjoyment of food (EF) (OR, 95% CI: 1.33, 1.13−1.57; p = 0.001 and 1.17, 1.05−1.30; p = 0.002, respectively) and lower scores on food fussiness (FF) at 3−6 years (0.76, 0.62−0.91; p = 0.004 and 0.87, 0.78−0.98; p = 0.033, respectively). Breastfeeding for ≥4 months and initiation of complementary feeding with the BLW and a mixed approach were associated with greater EF and lower FF, which should endure practice.

Anemia and associated factors among under-five children attending public Hospitals in Harari Regional State, eastern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

Childhood anemia is a significant global public health problem. It influences the physical and cognitive development, as well as immunity of affected children. This in turn leads to poor academic performance, low working potential, and increased morbidity and mortality. There is limited facility-based data on the magnitude and predictors of anemia among under-five children. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of anemia among under-five children attending public Hospitals in Harari Regional State, eastern Ethiopia. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital and Jugal Hospital from July 1, 2022, to August 31, 2022. A total of 330 under-five children were involved by systematic random sampling technique. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and other possible factors were collected through face-to-face interviews with children's parents/legal guardians. Four milliliters of venous blood samples were collected for a complete blood cell count. Collected data were checked for completeness, entered into Epi-Data Statistical Software Version 4.6, and exported into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was conducted and P < .05 were considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of anemia was 33% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 27.9%-37.9%). Age of children 6 to 11 months (adjusted odd ratio [AOR] = 3.94, 95% CI: 1.55-10.01) and 12 to 23 months (AOR = 2.93, 95% CI: 1.15-7.43), no maternal education (AOR = 4.34, 95% CI: 1.53-12.35), not exclusively breastfeeding (AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.11-3.52), being severely stunted (AOR = 3.39, 95 CI: 1.70-6.75), and underweight (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.12-3.87) were significantly associated with anemia among under-five children. In this study, anemia among under-five children is a moderate public health problem. This study revealed that young child age, maternal education level, early initiation of complementary feeding, and child undernutrition were factors associated with anemia. Thus, efforts should be made to improve the child's nutritional status as well as enhance maternal awareness of nutrition and child-feeding practice through health education. Regular childhood nutritional screening and appropriate intervention for malnutrition are needed. Besides, further studies assessing serum micronutrient levels should be conducted to differentiate the specific cause and type of anemia.

Early initiation of complementary feeding practice and its associated factors among children aged 6 to 24 months in Northeast Ethiopia

BackgroundEven if there is currently no research on food integration practices, there is an unreliable hole in the data for the first motives, especially 6 to 24 months, research at ages varies in different ways, always, but the child’s development affects an important part of both the child and the parents. This gap limits our comprehensive knowledge of strategic choices and—their potential impact on children’s overall health and well-being. Therefore, the aim of this study was factors shaping complementary feeding for 6 to 24-Month-Olds in Northeast Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based survey was conducted in northeastern Ethiopia from June to July 2022. A sample of 409 mothers with infants aged 6 to 24 months was selected using a simple random sampling method. A structured questionnaire was adopted and data were collected by an interviewer. Collected data were entered into Epi Data version 4.6 and subsequently converted to SPSS version 21 for further analysis. Variables with a P-value < = 0.25 in the bivariate analysis were included in the multivariable logistic regression model. Multivariable logistic regression analyses aimed at identifying independent associations between early initiation of supplement feeding and determinants-adjusted odds ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated to determine the strength of associations. P-values less than or equal to 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsA total of 409 mothers with their children were included in the analysis, revealing a prevalence of 38.1% for early initiation of complementary feeding among children aged 6–24 months. Factors associated with -early initiation included place of residence (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 3.63, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.1–11.95), husband’s educational status (AOR 16.83, 95% CI 1.98–24.8), maternal occupation (AOR 21.2, 95% CI 1.11–46.9), number of antenatal care (ANC) visits (AOR 25.94, 95% CI 22.7–85.67), initial breastfeeding time (AOR 4.98, 95% CI 1.22–14.9), and medical illness (AOR 2.81, 95% CI 1.12–3.6.ConclusionSignificant associations with Complementary Feeding were identified with the number of antenatal care (ANC) visits, postnatal care (PNC) check-ups, current residency, breastfeeding initiation time, maternal medical illness, and occupational status. To mitigate the early initiation of complementary feeding, it is recommended to enhance ANC/PNC services and educate mothers about the precise timing for introducing complementary foods to their infants.

The Relationship between Maternal Factors and the Timely Initiation of Complementary Feeding for Infants, in West Sumatera Province, Indonesia

Objective − This study looked into the relationship between maternal factors and the timely initiation of complementary feeding for infants. Material and Methods − A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to December 2022 on 196 mothers and their children aged 6-23 months. This study collected data through a questionnaire that included sociodemographic informa- tion, the Infant and Young Child Feeding Questionnaire for Child Care Providers (IYCF-CCPQ), the Iowa Infant Feeding At- titude Scale (IIFAS), and the time of initiation of complementary feeding.Results − This study included 196 mothers, with 128 (55.1%) having adequate knowledge of complementary feeding and 112 mothers (59.7%) had a negative view of infant feeding. The rate of timely initiation of complementary feeding was 71.4%. The mothers’ knowledge of infant feeding did not predict the timely initiation of complementary feeding (OR=1.18; 95% CI=0.62-2.26). However, maternal attitudes toward infant feeding were linked to the timely initiation of complementary feeding (OR=2.14; 95% CI=1.14-4.02). Conclusions − Mothers with positive attitudes toward infant feeding were twice as likely to start complementary feeding on time as those with negative at- titudes. Counseling mothers on the importance of timely initiation of complementary feeding is therefore required to improve mothers’ attitudes toward providing complementary foods to their infants in accordance with health recommendations.

IJCM_17A: Infant and young child feeding practices among Refugees in Gangavalli block of Salem district: cross-sectional study.

Background: Refugees often face worse health outcomes due to barriers including language, cultural differences, inaccessibility to health care services. World Health Organization works around the globe to secure the health of refugees &amp; migrants and to achieve universal health coverage through implementation of “Health and Migration Programme” (2020). Children are more vulnerable &amp; easily prone to malnutrition in refugee &amp; migrant population. Infant and Young child feeding practice is a key area to improve child survival and promote healthy growth. Objectives: 1. To estimate the prevalence of early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding of refugee children under two years of age. 2. To determine the factors influencing the feeding practices of children under 2 years among refugee children. Methodology: A Cross-sectional study was conducted among 97 refugee children under two years of age in Gangavalli block of Salem district over period of 1month (September 2023). Data collection was done using interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaire and statistical analysis done-IBM SPSS Version 21. Results: Early initiation of breastfeeding (within 1 hour of birth) was done in 53.6% children (52 out of 97). Only 26.8% children received Exclusive breastfeeding for more than 5 months of age. 64.9% children initiated on complementary feeding around 6-8 months of age. 76.3% children received semi-solid foods/soft foods during weaning. Only 5% children have Minimum Diet Diversity. Conclusion: The low rates of early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding for over 5 months of age highlight a concerning trend. Additionally, the delayed initiation of complementary feeding with minimal diet diversity in majority of children suggests a critical need for targeted interventions to improve and promote appropriate infant and young child feeding practices within this vulnerable population.

Time to initiate complementary feeding and its predictors among primipara mothers who have infants aged 6–12 months in the Awi zone, northwest Ethiopia

IntroductionThe timely initiation of complementary feeding is essential to reduce infant mortality. In Ethiopia, 37.5 % of mothers did not initiate complementary feeding to their infants in time. However, previous studies could not identify the time to initiate complementary feeding among primipara mothers. Therefore, this study aims to identify the time to initiate complementary feeding and its predictors among primipara mothers with infants aged 6–12 months in the Awi zone, northwest Ethiopia. MethodsA community-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted among 732 primipara mothers who had infants aged 6–12 months from January 1, 2022, to December 30, 2022. A multistage sampling technique was used to select study participants through questionnaires administered by interviewers. Data were entered into EPI-data 3.1 and exported to STATA 17 for further analysis. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve together with the log-rank test was used to assess the survival experience of the infant at specific times and to compare the survival of the infant in it between different categorical independent variables. Bivariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to identify significant predictors. Model fitness was also assessed using the Schoenfield residual and the Cox-Snell global residual test. Statistical significance was declared at the p-value <0.05. ResultThe median time to initiate complementary feeding among primipara mother-infant pairs was 6 ± 2 months. The overall incidence rate of complementary feeding initiation before, at and after 6 months of age of the infant was 7.28 (95%CI: 6.44, 8.25), 41.41 (95%CI: 36.05, 47.56), and 42.97 (95%CI: 36.89, 50.05) per 100 person-month observations, respectively. Among those mothers who initiated complementary feeding for their infants, 249, 200, and 165 initiated complementary feeding before, at and after 6 months of age of the infants. Furthermore, the age (15–24 years) of mothers (AHR: 1.63, 95%CI: 1.16, 2.29), rich wealth (AHR: 1.35, 95%CI: 1.05, 1.75), and richest wealth (AHR: 1.43, 95%CI: 1.10, 1.84) were identified as statistically significant predictors of the time to initiate complementary feeding. ConclusionsThe median time to initiate complementary feeding among primipara mother-infant pairs was 6 months. The age of the mother and the wealth status of the household were found to be statistically independent predictors of the time to initiate complementary feeding. Therefore, community health professionals are better able to work on when to initiate complementary feeding to infants of rich and richest young primipara mothers.

Late Preterm Newborns: Breastfeeding and Complementary Feeding Practices.

The aim of this study is to identify factors associated with successful breastfeeding in late preterm infants (LPIs) and explore the initiation of complementary feeding; Methods: Prospective cohort study was conducted of infants born at 34+0 to 36+6 weeks gestational age in the Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics during 2020-2021. Families were followed up until the infants reached 12 months of age. Average breastfeeding initial time, average breastfeeding duration time, prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding and average solid-food feeding initiation time were examined. The correlations among factors that might affect breastfeeding rates were calculated using the chi-square test (p < 0.05); Results: In our study with 222 eligible participants, we observed a statistically significant delay in breastfeeding initiation only in the 34+0+6 gestational age group (p < 0.001). At discharge, the 36+0+6 group exhibited a significantly higher exclusive breastfeeding rate (p < 0.001). Over the first year, breastfeeding rates varied, with no correlation found between duration of exclusive breastfeeding and gestational age. Initial solid-food feeding times were similar across groups, and all infants were introduced to vegetables first; Conclusions: Vaginal delivery, skin-to-skin contact after birth, early rooming-in, and breastfeeding within 2 h after birth statistically significantly causes earlier breastfeeding initiation and longer duration of breastfeeding in LPIs. All infants began solid-food feeding at an average age of 5 months, with vegetables being the primary food choice.

The effect of parity on time to initiate complementary feeding among mother-infant pairs in Awi Zone, Northwest Ethiopia

IntroductionDespite strategies and recommendations for complementary feeding initiation were applied globally, mothers initiated complementary feeding to the infants on time was low. Previous works of literatures were not identified the effect of parity on time to initiate complementary feeding. Particularly, evidences regarding to this in Ethiopia is scanty. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the effect of parity on time to initiate complementary feeding among mother-infants pairs in Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based prospective cohort study was carried out among 732 primipara, and 1464 multipara mothers who had a live birth in Northwest Ethiopia. Data were collected using Kobo collect software at the start of and on a monthly bases until the end of the follow up period. Parity as exposure variable and other confounders were analyzed using cox proportional hazard regression. Kaplan-Meier survival curve and the Schoenfeld residuals global test (P-value = 0.4861) was performed. Hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was used to declare statistical significance of predictors.ResultsThe overall incidence rate of initiation of complementary feeding among primipara and multipara mothers were 16.27 (95%CI: 15.04, 17.61) and 13.30 (95%CI: 12.53, 14.12) person months’ observations respectively. The median time to initiate complementary feeding among primipara and multipara mothers for their infants was 5 and 6 months respectively. Primipara mothers had a 30% higher rate to initiate complementary feeding early (AHR = 1.30, 95%CI: 1.17, 1.43). Age from 15 to 24 and 25–34 years (AHR = 1.69, 95%CI: 1.36, 2.09; and AHR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.17, 1.81) and Birth type (twin) (AHR = 1.29, 95%CI: 1.02, 1.64) were statistically significant predictors for time to initiate complementary feeding.ConclusionsParity was identified as a statistically significant predictor for time to initiate complementary feeding. The incidence rate of early and late initiation of complementary feeding was higher among primipara than multipara mothers. Besides, the median time to initiate complementary feeding was earlier among primipara than multipara mothers. So, a parity based complementary feeding practice education should be advocated to tackle the gap and further reduce infants and children malnutrition. Relatively younger age and twin delivered mothers initiated complementary feeding against the recommendation. Therefore, intervention considering such statistically significant predictors could have a public health importance.

Regional Variation in the Prevalence of Undernutrition and its Correlates Among Under Five-Year Children in North India.

Undernutrition is an important public health problem affecting one-third of under five-year-old children in India. To assess the nutritional status of under five-year-old children along with child feeding practices. We adopted a systematic sampling procedure to carry out this community-based, cross-sectional study in all the districts of Haryana. Data was collected on socioeconomic and demographic particulars along with anthropometric measurements. Analysis was done using SPSS Windows 23. The overall prevalence of stunting, underweight, and wasting was 34%, 27.5%, and 11%, while that of severe undernutrition was 11%, 8%, and 3%, respectively. The odds of underweight were significantly higher among children of the Muslim religion, children of scheduled caste, children of illiterate mothers, lower per capita income, HHs without electricity, landless HHs, low birth weight, no ANC care, and those early ages at complementary feeding. Stunting was significantly higher among children whose mothers were illiterate, children whose fathers were laborers, among landless HHs, with no separate kitchen and lower birth weight, while wasting was higher among children of Muslim religion, children of scheduled caste, with no sanitary latrine facility, low-birth-weight children and early initiation of complementary feeding. Undernutrition is observed to be associated with religion, community, education of mother, per capita income, land holding status, birth weight, and age at complementary feeding. Thus, improving maternal nutrition can improve birth weight, improving maternal knowledge about child feeding, and the household's socio-economic status may improve the nutritional status of children.

Effect of community based intervention on childhood pneumonia and its risk factors in slums of Dibrugarh, Assam

Background: Pneumonia, one leading cause of mortality in children. Preventing pneumonia related deaths is an urgent priority to meet sustainable development goals. Settings and Design: Community based cross sectional study in two registered slums Chandmarighat and Graham bazar in Dibrugarh, Assam. Methods and Material: 2 out of 10 registered slums were chosen and a baseline cross sectional study was done to list out the risk factors. Based on the risk factors, community based intervention was done by capacity building of frontline workers and monitoring and suportive supervision in one while only monitoring was done in non intervention slum. Taking 95% confidence interval for two tail distribution, the sample size in each of the slums was 300. Statistical analysis: done by using SPSS 20, rates, ratios, proportions, univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: Prevalence of pneumonia was significantly low (9.33% vs 16.33%) in intervention and non-intervention area (p&lt;0.001). Univariate analysis reported that initiation of complementary feeding before 6 months and indoor air pollution were associated with pneumonia in intervened area(p&lt;0.001). Multivariate analysis was done and type of family, complementary feeding before 6 months and indoor air pollution were associated with pneumonia in intervened area. Conclusions: Community based interventions targeting the established risk factors found effective in reducing the childhood pneumonia.

Prevalence and determinants of diarrhea morbidity among under five children of west Shoa Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia

BackgroundDiarrhea is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among under-five children, including Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of diarrhea morbidity among under-five children in the west Shewa zone. MethodsThe community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The study was conducted among 1004 study participants with under five children. The relation of covariates and diarrheal disease was checked using logistic regression at 95 %CI, where variables with p < 0.05 were statistically significant. ResultsThe finding revealed that the two-week prevalence of diarrhea in the west Shewa zone was 18.7 %. Children living in Ambo [AOR = 0.492, 95 %CI (0.255, 0.948)], Dendi [AOR = 0.413, 95 %CI (0.222, 0.769)], Toke kutaye [AOR = 0.462, 95 %CI (0.240, 0.889)], Bako Tibe [AOR = 0.522, 95 %CI (0.275, 0.993)] were less likely affected by diarrhea. Feeding by cup and spoon [AOR = 0.656, 95 %CI (0.433, 0.995)] and feeding by bottle [AOR = 0.577, 95 %CI (0.362, 0.922)] were less likely affected by diarrhea. Using untreated water [AOR = 1.795, 95 %CI (1.184, 2.721)], complementary feeding before six months [AOR = 1.798, 95 %CI (1.261, 2.565)], improper waste disposal [AOR = 2.041, 95 %CI (1.394, 2.989)], unvaccinated for rotavirus [AOR = 1.990, 95 %CI (1.162, 3.410)] were more likely develop diarrhea. ConclusionOur study identified that one in five under-five children was affected by diarrheal morbidity. It was determined by the woreda of respondents, drinking water, child feeding method, complementary feeding initiation time, waste disposal, and rotavirus vaccination. All concerned bodies should intervene based on the cause of the disease.

Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices among Mothers Attending a Government Hospital

Background: Appropriate young children (from birth to two years of life) feeding practice is very crucial to boost up children’s survival and optimum growth and development. Early initiation of breastfeeding (within an hour of childbirth), exclusive breastfeeding for six months and providing nutritionally adequate and appropriate complementary feeding for six months and continued breastfeeding up to two years of age or beyond are the major components of infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices. The objective of the study was to find out the IYCF practices of mothers.&#x0D; Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional research was used and all 180 mothers attending government hospital of Biratnagar were the sample. Interview-based data collection was used by a self-developed, structured and semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics using SPSS version 25.0.&#x0D; Result: Less than half (40%) mothers started breastfeeding within an hour after delivery, 90.6% fed colostrum, 73.3% practiced exclusive breast feeding and 89.4% continued to feed breastmilk along with complementary feed to under two years children. Among mothers, 68.3% started feeding complementary food at appropriate age, 70.6% of the mothers fed minimum numbers of time or more according to their child age, 80% mothers used to provide diverse food and 66.1% children were receiving minimum acceptable diet.&#x0D; Conclusion: The prevalence of timely initiation of complementary feeding at 6 months, minimum dietary diversity, minimum feeding frequency and minimum acceptable diet were satisfactory as almost two third and more children have met minimum acceptable diet. However, practice of early initiation of breast feeding is still low.

Complementary Feeding Patterns and Factors Affecting Timely Introduction in a Tribal Population: A Mixed-Methods Study

Introduction: About 29-60% of tribal children are underweight due to limited healthcare access. The Kols, a tribe in central India, face similar issues and our study will examine their complementary feeding practices. Methodology: A sequential explanatory mixed-method research design was conducted on 218 Kol tribe women in the Manikpur block of Chitrakoot district Uttar Pradesh. In the first phase, the quantitative interview using a semi-structured questionnaire and in the second phase, an in-depth interview of 20 Kol mothers was conducted using an interview guide. Results: About 52.3% of the women were aged between 26- 35 years, and about 83.9% were illiterate. About half of the children (n=116, 53.5%) were introduced to complementary feed at 6-8 months of age. The independent predictors of the timely initiation of complementary feeding were education (AOR: 2.422, p 0.037), age of the mothers (AOR: 1.2106, p 0.047) and the number of children of the mothers (AOR: 2.715 p 0.004) diet diversity was rarely maintained. Conclusion: Complementary feed was introduced timely for half of the tribal women but diet diversity was not maintained. Health education and counselling to utilize locally available food items should be encouraged.

Maternal understanding and practices of breastfeeding and infant feeding in rural North Karnataka: a cross sectional study

Background: Child-malnutrition is a critical global concern supported by substantial evidence. Recognizing optimal infant and young child-feeding practices as pivotal in combating malnutrition is crucial. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted through house-to-house survey in Ukkali and Shivanagi villages for period of 6 months from February 2018 to July 2018. A pretested-questionnaire was administered to 133mothers of 6 to 12-month-old children, collecting socio-demographic data, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding prelacteal, breastfeeding, and complementary-feeding. Results: Knowledge gaps emerged, with only 50% understanding colostrum's importance. Limited awareness of exclusive breastfeeding (65%) and extended breastfeeding (31.57%) was observed. Prelacteal-feeding was widespread (52.63%), with sugar-water being a prevalent choice (21.8%). Most mothers (over 90%) opted for breastfeeding, yet timely initiation (27.6%) and exclusive-breastfeeding (30%) were suboptimal. Complementary-feeding initiation (15%) and minimum-meal-frequency adherence (13.3%) were low. Meal-diversity was deficient in over 60%. Conclusions: Bridging knowledge gaps and promoting optimal-feeding-practices through targeted nutritional education is essential. This study underscores the importance of addressing misconceptions, enhancing early-breastfeeding, and ensuring proper complementary-feeding to improve child-health outcomes. Socio-demographic-factors must be considered when designing educational material and interventions in rural-settings.

Impact of attend to day care associated with healthy weight in infants and preschoolers

Being overweight affects millions of infants and preschoolers in the world, affecting their quality and life expectancy. Exposure to day care centers may play an important role in preventing unhealthy weight (UW). To point out the prevalence and association of day care exposure and other factors associated with UW in infants and preschoolers. An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out. Infant population aged 6-47 months without comorbidities that compromised their nutritional status were included, and those with formal childcare different from the selected day care were excluded. Exposure to day care, and other factors (perinatal, physical activity, nutritional, and familiar) were evaluated. A z score > 1 SD was considered UW. Prevalence, odds ratios (OR), 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) and adjusted RM by low birth weight, initiation of complementary feeding, consumption of sugary drinks, daytime naps, maternal nutritional status, and family income quintile through logistic regression. The overall prevalence of UW was 17.84% (95%CI: 14.93-21.16), 11.84 (95%CI: 8.54-16.14) for children exposed to day care, and 23.78% (95%CI: 19.21-29.02) in unexposed infant population, showing significant differences between both prevalences (p < 0.001). The adjusted OR for UW presentation was 0.39 (95% CI: 0.23-0.66). Exposure to IMSS day care has shown to be a possible protective environment against the development of a UW.

Timely initiation of complementary feeding practices and associated factors among children aged 6-23 months in Dessie Zuria District, Northeast Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study.

Ethiopia has one of the highest infant and child mortality rates in the world. Starting from the age of 6 months, breast milk alone is not sufficient to cover all nutritional requirements. Infants and young children are at an increased risk of undernutrition. Complementary feeding must, therefore, begin at the age of 6 months. Infant and young child nutrition is a critical factor in human health, nutrition, survival, growth, and development. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the timely initiation of complementary feeding practices and associated factors in children aged 6-23 months in the Dessie Zuria District of North Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study design was used for the period between 16 March and 30 March 2019. The study included 770 mother-child pairs aged 6-23 months. A multistage sampling method was used to choose the study participants. Using a simple random sampling technique, nine kebeles in the district were selected from a total of 31, and from 103 Gotts or villages, 31 were selected with 770 HHs out of 2,329 HHs with children aged 6-23 months. Data were collected using a pretested semistructured interviewer-administered questionnaire, which was then entered into Epi Data version 3.1 statistical software before being transferred to SPSS version 21 for further analysis. To summarize the data, descriptive statistics were used, which included a simple frequency table and figures. To evaluate factors, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were used. A p-value of less than 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. The percentage of children who started complementary feeding practices on time was 70.9. Maternal occupation [AOR = 5.51, 95% CI (1.61-18.81)], radio availability [AOR = 2.03, 95% CI (1.32-3.12)], antenatal care follow-up [AOR = 6.19, 95% CI (4.08-9.40)], place of delivery [AOR = 5.06%, CI (3.34-7.68)], and postnatal care follow-up [AOR = 4.32, 95% CI (2.77-6.72)] were found to be the factors for the timely initiation of complementary feeding. When compared with WHO cutoff points, timely initiation of complementary feeding practice was relatively low in the study area. Maternal occupation, radio availability, ANC follow-up, place of delivery, and postnatal care visit were all significantly associated with the timely initiation of complementary feeding.

Role of Mitanin community health workers in improving complementary feeding practices under scaled-up home-based care of young children in a rural region of India

BackgroundA large proportion of young children in developing countries receive inadequate feeding and face frequent infections. Global research has established the need for improving feeding practices and management of child illnesses. Interventions involving home visits by community health workers (CHWs) for caregiver education have been attempted in many countries. Indian government rolled out an intervention called home-based care of young children (HBYC) in 2018 but no studies exist of its scaled-up implementation. The current study was aimed at assessing the coverage of HBYC in Chhattisgarh state where it has been implemented through 67,000 rural CHWs known as Mitanins.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was based on a primary household survey. Households with children in 7–36 months age were eligible for survey. A multi-stage sample of 2646 households was covered. Descriptive analyses were performed and key indicators were reported with 95% confidence intervals. To find out the association between caregiver practices and receiving advice from the CHWs, multivariate regression models were applied.ResultsOverall, 85.1% children in 7–36 months age received at least one home visit from a CHW within the preceding three months. Complementary feeding had been initiated for 67% of children at six months age and the rate was 87% at eight months age. Around one-third of the children were fed less than three times a day. Around 41% households added oil in child’s food the preceding day. CHWs were contacted in 73%, 69% and 61% cases of diarrhea, fever and respiratory infections respectively in children. Among those contacting a CHW for diarrhea, 88% received oral rehydration.The adjusted models showed that receiving advice from CHWs was significantly associated with timely initiation of complementary feeding, increasing the frequency of feeding, increasing diet diversity, addition of oil, weighing and consumption of food received from government’s supplementary nutrition programme.ConclusionsAlong with improving food security of households, covering a large share of young children population with quality home visits under scaled-up CHW programmes can be the key to achieving improvements in complementary feeding and child care practices in developing countries.