Cross-sectional study of predictors of infant nutrition knowledge among new mothers in Iraq.

Abstract

Background: Despite recent improvements, infant and young child feeding (IYCF) remains a challenge in Basra, Iraq.

Aim: To describe the predictors of IYCF knowledge among new mothers in Basra City, Iraq.

Methods: This cross-sectional study collected data on infant nutrition knowledge from 400 new mothers attending 12 primary health care centres in Basra, Iraq, between February and June 2023. Jamovi version 2.3 was used for statistical analyses. Predictive analysis was performed with univariable and multivariable ordinal logistic regression, and the results were reported as crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence interval. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Most (60%) of the women interviewed were younger than 19 years, married (98%), living in an extended family setting (93%), and in the lowest income level (76%). Age ≤19 was a significant predictor of knowledge about breastfeeding, formula feeding, complementary feeding, water and supplements, and food allergies (adjusted odds ratio range 2.24-5.30). Unemployment and low education status predicted lower knowledge about breastfeeding, complementary feeding, water and supplements, and food allergies, but neither unemployment nor low education status predicted lower knowledge about formula feeding. Receiving information from doctors or healthcare workers and social media or the internet was associated with better maternal IYCF knowledge while receiving information from family and friends predicted poorer knowledge about food allergy and water and supplements.

Conclusion: IYCF education in Basra should be improved, with particular attention to healthcare worker-mediated and social media- and family systems-based approaches. Priority should be given to the less educated, younger and unemployed women and those in the lower income group.