Trends and determinants of breastfeeding continuation up to two years in Ethiopia: a two–decade analysis from EDHS (2000–2019)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Breastfeeding continuation up to two years provides essential nutrients for children and has health benefits for both children and mothers. Despite efforts to promote breastfeeding in Ethiopia, there is limited evidence on trends and factors influencing breastfeeding continuation for up to two years. This study examined these aspects to assess the impact of past policies. METHODS: The five Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS2000-2019) were used to extract data for the analysis of breastfeeding continuation for 1-year-olds (aged 12-15 months) and 2-year-olds (aged 20-23 months) children. Trend analysis and multivariable logistic regression were performed using SPSS version 27. RESULTS: Breastfeeding continuation rates at 1 year and 2 years have declined for the last 20 years, ranging from 92.43% in 2000 to 83.63% in 2019, and from 78.75% in 2000 to 66.42% in 2019, respectively, despite in some regions maintaining relative increases in recent times. It was strongly linked with recent survey years, residence, regions, education attainment, pregnancy status, place of delivery, and repeated utilization of antenatal care. CONCLUSION: The study showed an inconsistent decline in breastfeeding continuation for up to two years and complex patterns across regions and between urban and rural areas. This suggests a need to re-evaluate current policies, devise diverse interventions. Further research is also warranted to better understand the complex trends and disparities across Ethiopia for culturally sensitive and regionally tailored strategies.