Assessment of Feeding Patterns for Children below Two Years of Age in PHCCs in Karbala

Abstract

Abstract Breastfeeding is considered the healthiest start for babies. Breast milk should be the only food offered to infants for the first six months of life. The first two years of age are very important for the child's growth and development, Poor feeding patterns in children may lead to their undernutrition, which is a major public health problem. Objectives: To investigate and document the prevailing feeding patterns practiced by care givers for children under the age of two in Primary Health Care Centers (PHCCs) within Karbala. To identify factors influencing caregivers' decisions regarding the choice of feeding practices for infants and young children attending PHCCs in Karbala. Patients & Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. A convenient sample included 680 mothers of children below two years of age, and the mothers' ages were more than thirteen years. The study was carried out at ten PHCCs in Karbala City from January 5–28, 2023. Results: The results showed that the majority of children (63%) were breast feeding and most of the mothers were housewives, There was a significant relationship between the type of feeding and type of labor (p=0.000*). Conclusion: Breastfeeding was the most common feeding pattern among children included in the study, but still, there were baby’s bottle feeding without real indication for using it. Recommendation: Encouraging breastfeeding and increasing awareness about it among women of childbearing age.