Infants′ Sunlight Exposure Practice and Associated Factors Among Mothers in Northwest Ethiopia: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Aim: Sunlight is crucial for infant health, as it contributes to bone development, immune function, and overall well-being. However, Maternal sunlight exposure practices are influenced by various sociodemographic and healthcare-related factors, including maternal age, education level, and access to postnatal care. This study aimed to assess sunlight exposure practices and associated factors among mothers in Gindewoin town. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study included 397 randomly selected mothers with infants. Data were collected through structured interviews, entered into EpiData version 4.2, and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify determinants of good sunlight exposure practices. Result: Only 38% of mothers reported practicing adequate sunlight exposure for their infants. Mothers aged 25–29 years (AOR = 3.01) and 30–34 years (AOR = 4.11) were significantly more likely to practice good sunlight exposure. Diploma and above education increased the odds of good practice by threefold. Lack of postnatal follow-up was associated with a 74% reduction in the likelihood of adequate sunlight exposure. Conclusion: The prevalence of good sunlight exposure practice remains low. Interventions should target maternal education, encourage postnatal care utilization, and promote awareness among younger mothers to enhance infant sunlight exposure practices.