Determinants of child feeding practices in Pakistan; secondary data analysis of demographic and health survey 2006-07

• DOI: 10.4103/2278-019x.131958
• Publication Date: 2014-11-03T04:58:24Z
• Authors: Mubashir Zafar; Zafar Fatmi; Khalid Shafi
• Keywords: 2. Zero hunger; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; 1. No poverty; 3. Good health

Background: In Pakistan, poor infant and young child feeding practices are contributing to the burden of infectious diseases malnutrition. Objective: This study aimed estimate determinants selected key indicators breastfeeding in Pakistan. Materials Methods: Total 5718 children aged 0 23 months from Pakistan Demographic Health Survey 2006-2007 were included. WHO recommended estimated, examined against a set individual-, household-, community-level variables using univariate multivariate analyses. Results: Only 26.3% mothers initiated within first hour after birth, 97.6% had ever breastfed, 92.5% currently breastfeeding, 62.7% bottle feeding. Bottle rates higher among infants whose partner worked (OR = 1.66), been employed 1.17), birth order > 5 1.25) Richest wealth quintiles for richest 2.34). The likelihood not initiating was those who visited antenatal clinic 1.54), no post natal visits 1.45), working mother 1.76), delivery at facility based centre 1.95), richer households 1.77), 1.67), formally married women 2.31). Conclusions: Breastfeeding practice suggest that there is need promotion correct/recommended community. Breast should targeted have younger age urban areas.