Effectiveness of the baby‐friendly community initiative on exclusive breastfeeding in Kenya

• DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13142
• Publication Date: 2021-02-05T23:11:49Z
• Authors: Elizabeth W. Kima...; Judith Kimiywe; Antonina N. Mutoro; Calistus Wilunda; Frederick Murunga...; Peter Muriuki; Bonaventure M. Mw...; Betty Mogesi Samburu; Nyovani Janet Madise; Stephen T. McGarvey; Paula L. Griffiths
• Keywords: Kenya; Community Health

The baby-friendly hospital initiative (BFHI) promotes exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in hospitals, but this is not accessible rural settings where mothers give birth at home, hence the need for a community intervention. We tested effectiveness of (BFCI) on EBF Kenya. This cluster randomized study was conducted 13 units Koibatek sub-county. Pregnant women aged 15-49 years were recruited and followed up until their children 6 months old. Mothers intervention group received standard maternal, infant young child nutrition counselling, support from trained health volunteers, professionals mother groups, whereas those control counselling only. Data practices collected longitudinally. probability to age restricted mean survival time difference estimated. A total 823 (intervention n = 351) pregnant recruited. Compared with group, more likely exclusively breastfeed (79.2% vs. 54.5%; P < .05). Children also breastfed longer time, (95% confidence interval [CI]) 0.62 (0.38, 0.85; .001). BFCI implemented within existing system including groups led significant increase Kenyan setting. has potential improve rates similar settings.