Breastfeeding practices in field practice area of SRM medical college and its association with hospitalisation due to ARI and diarrhoea among under five children

Abstract

Background: Although the beneficial effects of breastfeeding during infancy is well established, the long term effects of breast feeding on infections in children have hardly been studied. In this study we assess the effects of breastfeeding practices on hospitalization due to Acute Respiratory Infections(ARI) and Diarrhoeal diseases in children. Objectives:To estimate the prevalence of exclusive breast feeding and the association between breast feeding practices and hospitalization due to ARI and diarrheal diseases among Under five children in the field practice area of SRM Medical College, Potheri, Tamil Nadu.Methods: A cross sectional Community based study was conducted and100 mothers of Under five children aged 6-60 months, residing at rural and urban areas of Kancheepuram district in Tamil Nadu, India were interviewed. A semi structured questionnaire was administered for the same. Results: Among the 100 mothers,who participated in the study, only 45% practiced exclusive breastfeeding and majority of them belonged to rural area. The major reasons for not practicing exclusive breastfeeding included milk insufficiency and mothers desire to start weaning. Usage of pacifier and feeding colostrum showed significant association with hospitalization due to ARI. Whereas in case of diarrheal diseases significant association was seen with prelacteal feeding. Conclusion: Awareness regarding practices such as feeding colostrums, prelacteal feeds, and usage of pacifier needs to be improved in the community to reduce hospitalization due to ARI and diarrhoea diseases in under five children.