Publication:

Study of breast feeding practices in rural field practice area of Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal, Telangana state, India

Background Infant mortality rate (IMR) is considered as one of the most sensitive indicators of health status of a community. Breast feeding in rural areas appears to be influenced by beliefs, social, cultural and educational factors. This study aimed to access awareness and practices towards exclusive breast feeding and awareness towards the nutritional status and assessment and positioning of baby as per IMNCI guidelines in rural area, Warangal.

Methods A community based cross-sectional study conducted on mothers with children aged 0-2 years residing in rural field practising area, Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal. A total of 200 mothers with children aged 0-2 years were interviewed using a pre-tested questionnaire. Statistical analysis: percentages, proportions and chi-square test.

Results A total of 200 mothers with children aged 0-2 years participated in the study; majority (46.2%) belonged to the age group of 21-23 years in which most of the mothers belong to Hindu religion (90%), of which 67% lived in nuclear family. In this study, the percentage of mothers with children 0-2 years belonging to upper class was predominant with 47.5%. Association was found between education and practice of not giving prelacteal feeds and also with initiation of breast feeding (IBF). Association was also found between knowledge and practice. There is a significant awareness between EBF and IBF. About 83.8% mothers feed their child with colostrum, of which 28% mothers said that they don’t know the reason of practising colostrum. Around 70% babies have good suckling and 54.3% babies were born with prematurity.

Conclusions Nearly 76% mothers were lack of awareness regarding health condition of both baby and mother on breast feeding practices. The literacy and age of women has significant association on breast feeding practices.