Early weaning and anemia in children under 2 years old from indigenous peoples in Alagoas state, Brazil

Abstract

Objectives

To investigate the frequency of breastfeeding (BF) practices and factors associated with early weaning and anemia in indigenous children under 2 years of age.

Study design

A household cross-sectional study was conducted in 13 indigenous communities in Alagoas state, northeastern Brazil.

Methods

Mothers of eligible children were interviewed to gather socioeconomic, demographic, health, and feeding practice data. Blood samples were collected to assess the hemoglobin concentration (Hb). Multiple Cox, linear, and Poisson regression models were employed to examine the factors associated with weaning and anemia (Hb < 110 g/L in children aged 6 months and older).

Results

Of the 1303 households surveyed, 145 had children under 2 years old. The prevalence of exclusive BF at 6 months was only 19 %. High frequencies of anemia (42.5 %), bottle-feeding (70 %), and pacifier use (31 %) were observed. The use of bottle and pacifier was associated with early weaning. Bottle-feeding was significantly associated with anemia (PR = 2.62; 95 % CI: 1.42–4.84) after adjusting for household wealth index.

Conclusions

BF practices among indigenous children do not meet WHO recommendations. The use of artificial nipples was linked to early weaning, and bottle feeding was associated with anemia after 6 months of age. These findings underscore the urgent need for interventions to promote, protect, and support BF in indigenous people, guiding multidisciplinary health teams in properly caring for young children in indigenous communities.