Pediatric mortality and hospitalization risk from poor breast-feeding.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Risk of pediatric mortality and hospitalization related to suboptimal breast-feeding practices
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:
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S. M. G. Ishrar, B. Thejeswari, G.S.B. Pavaneesh Reddy and B. Manvitha
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World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: Risk of pediatric mortality and hospitalization related to suboptimal breast-feeding practices
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20214-20052
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
Summary of article contents:
1. Introduction
Breastfeeding is crucial for infant health, and inadequate breastfeeding practices contribute significantly to pediatric morbidity and mortality. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), poor feeding practices lead to numerous preventable deaths, with an estimated 1.4 million children dying due to suboptimal breastfeeding. This study conducted by Ishrar et al. aims to evaluate breastfeeding practices among mothers and identify complications in newborns related to suboptimal breastfeeding. Through a cross-sectional analysis involving 250 mothers and infants, the study highlights the importance of education and awareness regarding breastfeeding benefits.
2. The Impact of Suboptimal Breastfeeding on Child Health
Suboptimal breastfeeding is directly linked to increased rates of pneumonia and diarrhea among infants, which are among the leading causes of child mortality in India. The study finds that only 44.6% of newborns in India initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, with even fewer maintaining optimal breastfeeding practices during the first six months. In particular, children aged 7-14 months showed higher hospitalization rates due to suboptimal breastfeeding, emphasizing the need for timely interventions to improve these practices and prevent related health complications.
3. Patterns of Breastfeeding Practices
The study reveals significant findings regarding the patterns of breastfeeding among mothers. A majority (76%) practiced exclusive breastfeeding, while mixed and non-exclusive breastfeeding were reported at 7.2% and 12.4%, respectively. Additionally, 54.8% of mothers breastfed for six months to one year, indicating variability in breastfeeding duration. However, the introductory age for complementary food left much to be desired, with a notable percentage of mothers introducing solid foods before the recommended age of six months. This inconsistency in breastfeeding practices signals the necessity for education and adherence to recommended guidelines.
4. Factors Influencing Breastfeeding Practices
Multiple factors affect breastfeeding practices, including maternal age, knowledge, and delivery circumstances. The results indicate that mothers with a better understanding of breastfeeding benefits are more likely to engage in optimal breastfeeding practices, while those with unsatisfactory knowledge contributed to cases of mixed or non-exclusive breastfeeding. The study also notes associations between maternal employment status and the likelihood of continuing breastfeeding, underlining the complexity of factors that can either promote or hinder effective breastfeeding practices.
5. Conclusion
The findings of this study underscore the critical need for enhanced education around healthy breastfeeding practices, particularly in regions where knowledge and awareness are lacking. By improving education and counseling about the appropriate breastfeeding duration and techniques, healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, can play a vital role in reducing hospitalizations and improving infant health outcomes. Ultimately, fostering a culture of optimal breastfeeding can lower the rates of pediatric morbidity and mortality, ensuring a healthier future for infants.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main objective of the study on breastfeeding?
The study aims to assess suboptimal breastfeeding complications in neonates, identify underlying reasons and complications, and educate mothers regarding the importance of breastfeeding for better child health outcomes.
What are the reported risks associated with suboptimal breastfeeding practices?
Suboptimal breastfeeding is estimated to cause 1.4 million child deaths and significant disability, with 53% of pneumonia and 45% of diarrhea deaths attributed to poor feeding practices in the first six months of life.
What demographic was targeted in this breastfeeding study?
The study involved 250 breastfeeding mothers and their neonates over six months, focusing on patients admitted to the Pediatric In-patient Department at a referral hospital in Andhra Pradesh, India.
What were the findings regarding breastfeeding duration in the study?
Results showed that 54.8% of mothers practiced breastfeeding for six months to one year, while 19.6% breastfed for over a year, indicating a concerning trend in suboptimal breastfeeding duration among mothers.
How did breastfeeding practices affect hospitalization rates in children?
The study found that children aged 7-14 months were notably hospitalized due to suboptimal breastfeeding practices, highlighting the critical need for improved breastfeeding education among mothers.
What recommendations were made for promoting optimal breastfeeding practices?
The study recommends educating and counseling mothers on healthy breastfeeding practices, emphasizing the role of pharmacists in supporting dietary and lifestyle modifications for improving breastfeeding outcomes.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pediatric mortality and hospitalization risk from poor breast-feeding.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Study (Studying):
The keyword 'Study' relates to the research conducted to investigate suboptimal breastfeeding practices and their impact on pediatric mortality and hospitalization. It highlights the systematic approach taken to collect data and analyze the effects of breastfeeding choices, thereby informing better health practices among mothers and healthcare professionals.
2) Birth:
The term 'Birth' is significant in this context as it marks the beginning of a child's life, during which breastfeeding initiation is crucial. The timing and practices surrounding birth influence breastfeeding rates and subsequently affect neonatal health outcomes, underscoring the importance of immediate and effective breastfeeding upon delivery.
3) India:
India is a focal point in this research, illustrating the country’s breastfeeding practices and health statistics. It provides context for the study by highlighting challenges faced due to cultural practices, healthcare infrastructure, and socio-economic factors, impacting neonatal health and mortality rates, particularly linked to breastfeeding habits.
4) Death:
The keyword 'Death' refers to outcomes that the study aims to reduce through better breastfeeding practices. The research emphasizes the link between suboptimal breastfeeding and child mortality rates, making it essential to address these practices to enhance child survival and health, particularly in vulnerable populations.
5) Andhra (Amdhra):
Andhra Pradesh is the geographic focus of the study, representing a specific region in India. This denotes regional health disparities, cultural attitudes towards breastfeeding, and access to healthcare resources, making it a critical area for interventions to improve breastfeeding practices and reduce child morbidity and mortality.
6) Life:
The term 'Life' underscores the health outcomes associated with optimal breastfeeding practices. Adequate breastfeeding during infancy is crucial for ensuring the healthy development of children, reducing risk of diseases, and improving overall quality and length of life, making it pivotal in public health initiatives.
7) Table:
The 'Table' is a reference to the data representation within the study, such as demographic details and breastfeeding practices. These tables summarize key findings, allowing for easier comprehension and analysis of the data, thereby facilitating discussions on the implications of breastfeeding habits on child health.
8) Milk:
The word 'Milk' primarily pertains to breast milk, the focus of the study. It highlights the nutritional benefits provided through breastfeeding, which is vital for infant health. The emphasis on breast milk underlines the need for education on its importance for immunity and growth in neonates.
9) Raghavendra:
Raghavendra refers to the institute where the study was conducted, emphasizing the academic framework supporting the research. This association points to the role of educational institutions in advancing scholarship and facilitating research that addresses public health issues, particularly in the domain of pharmacy and maternal health.
10) Education:
Education is crucial for informing mothers about the importance of optimal breastfeeding. The study identifies a gap in knowledge among mothers regarding breastfeeding practices, making educational initiatives essential for improving health outcomes and decreasing pediatric morbidity and mortality associated with poor feeding practices.
11) Pur:
The term 'Poor' describes suboptimal breastfeeding practices, which are linked to significant health risks for infants. This highlights the urgency to address inadequate nutrition and inform potential interventions aimed at improving health knowledge, practices, and ultimately, the well-being of mothers and their children.
12) Male:
The keyword 'Male' pertains to the gender of the children studied in the research. Understanding the gender distribution in breastfeeding practices can provide insights into any disparities or specific health requirements that might exist, thus allowing for more targeted healthcare interventions and support strategies.
13) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the understanding and information that mothers possess regarding breastfeeding practices. The study indicates a lack of knowledge as a significant barrier to optimal breastfeeding, thus emphasizing the need for targeted education to improve maternal awareness and subsequently enhance child health outcomes.
14) Cancer:
Cancer is mentioned in relation to potential health impacts of breastfeeding on mothers. The study addresses concerns, such as how inadequate breastfeeding practices might link with higher risks for certain health conditions like breast cancer, thus reinforcing the health benefits of breastfeeding for mothers, as well.
15) Reason:
The term 'Reason' is pivotal in understanding the motivations behind breastfeeding practices. Identifying the reasons mothers may opt for suboptimal breastfeeding helps in addressing these barriers through interventions that can enhance awareness and knowledge, thereby promoting healthier feeding choices for infants.
16) Diet:
Diet is crucial in the context of breastfeeding, as maternal nutrition significantly influences breast milk production and quality. Mothers' dietary choices directly affect the health benefits provided through breastfeeding, making education on proper nutrition vital to ensure optimal breastfeeding practices among new mothers.
17) Discussion:
The keyword 'Discussion' refers to the section of the research where results are interpreted and contextualized within existing literature. This is essential for understanding the implications of the data collected, how it affects public health efforts, and formulating strategies to promote better breastfeeding practices.
18) Collecting:
Collecting relates to the gathering of data through surveys and questionnaires aimed at understanding breastfeeding practices. The effectiveness of this process is critical to ensure accurate representation of the issues at hand, ultimately leading to informed conclusions and recommendations for improving maternal and child health.
19) Practising (Practicing):
Practicing refers to the application of breastfeeding knowledge by mothers. The study identifies discrepancies between knowledge and actual practices, emphasizing the need for interventions that support mothers in implementing optimal breastfeeding techniques to improve health outcomes for their infants.
20) Disease:
The term 'Disease' is critical in addressing specific health conditions resulting from poor breastfeeding practices, including pneumonia and diarrhea. Understanding the relationship between feeding practices and disease outcomes is essential for developing effective health interventions aimed at reducing illness in children.
21) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene relates to the cleanliness and health practices surrounding breastfeeding. Suboptimal hygiene can lead to adverse health outcomes in infants. The research highlights the significance of combining proper breastfeeding knowledge with hygiene practices to improve overall infant health in the studied population.
22) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom in children often associated with infection or illness, which can be linked to suboptimal breastfeeding practices. The study's focus on associated diseases like pneumonia and bronchopneumonia highlights the importance of breastfeeding in enhancing infant immunity and reducing incidences of fever-related illnesses.
23) Food:
Food represents the complementary feeding practices explored in the study. The timing and type of food introduced alongside breastfeeding are crucial for overall child nutrition. Proper guidance on transitioning to complementary foods is essential for holistic child health and development following breastfeeding.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Pediatric mortality and hospitalization risk from poor breast-feeding.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Birth characteristics, Exclusive breastfeeding, Institutional review board, Infant feeding practices, Disability-adjusted life-year, Pediatric mortality, Non-exclusive breastfeeding, Early initiation of breastfeeding, Mixed breastfeeding, Duration of breastfeeding, Maternal employment.