Understanding the longitudinal trends (2005-2018) and multilevel risk factors of complementary feeding in Guinea.

Abstract

This study aimed to define complementary feeding trends in Guinea from 2005 to 2018 and complementary feeding risk factors at the individual, household, and community levels. Data from 2005 to 2018 demographic health surveys (DHS) and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys were used to describe complementary feeding trends in Guinea. The most recent DHS was used to examine complementary feeding risk factors at the individual, household, and community levels. Complementary feeding indicators including introduction to complementary foods (INTRO), minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum meal frequency (MMF), and minimum acceptable diet (MAD) were calculated based on the 2010 World Health Organisation guidance. Multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify significant risk factors (p < 0.05). Since 2005, there has been a marginal increase in MDD and MAD, but a decrease in INTRO and MMF. The 2018 DHS survey revealed various complementary feeding risk factors. At the individual level, travelling 1-60 min to get water was associated with decreased odds of meeting INTRO, while iron supplementation and maternal education were associated with increased odds of meeting MMF and MDD, respectively. Routine vitamin A supplementation, fever in the past 2 weeks, and low birth weight were associated with increased odds of meeting MAD. At the household level, being in a lower wealth quintile was associated with decreased odds of meeting MDD and MAD. National and subnational programmes and policies designed to improve infant and young child diets may consider tailored approaches that address the specific indicators and risk factors associated with poorer diets in this Guinean context.