ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND BREASTFEEDING PRACTICES AMONG LACTATING WOMEN IN DERA ISMAIL KHAN, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding is a crucial factor for the optimal growth and survival of infants. Knowledge of breastfeeding is a significant determinant of breastfeeding practices, but it can be affected by socio-demographic factors.

Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the knowledge and practices of breastfeeding among lactating mothers in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and their association with socio-demographic factors.

Methods: The study was a cross-sectional survey carried out from April 5 to April 30, 2019, at the Department of Community Medicine, Gomal Medical College. A total of 98 lactating mothers aged 18-40 years were selected for the study using non-probability purposive sampling. The data was collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire to assess socio-demographic variables, knowledge, and practices related to breastfeeding. The knowledge and practices were assessed using a 5-point Likert scale and scored as poor, fair, good, or excellent. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. One-way ANOVA was used to determine the relationship between socio-demographic variables and scores of knowledge and practices. Pearson correlation and linear regression tests were used to determine the correlation between knowledge and practices. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The mean score of knowledge was 3.92 ± 0.63 and that of practice was 3.58 ± 0.61, both of which were classified as good. Good knowledge was found in 47.9% of the participants, whereas 44.9% had good practice. Residence and occupation were found to have significant association with knowledge and practice (p < 0.001), and monthly income was significantly associated with knowledge (p = 0.028). There was a strong positive correlation between knowledge and practice (r = 0.735). Knowledge was a significant predictor of practice (p = 0.004), accounting for 54% variation in practice (R² = 0.54).

Conclusion: The knowledge and practices regarding breastfeeding were found to be good. Knowledge had a strong positive influence on practice. Educational interventions can be designed to further improve the practice of breastfeeding.