Evaluating knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding complementary feeding (weaning) among mothers of six-month-old children

Abstract

This study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding complementary feeding (weaning) among mothers with six-month-old children. A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical approach was employed, emphasizing the gathering, analysis, and interpretation of relevant data to portray the phenomenon accurately. The evaluation was divided into three KAP domains. A total of 200 respondents were included in the analysis. It was discovered that mothers demonstrated concerns and a lack of knowledge about enriching complementary food with iodized salt (Knowledge: M = 2.63 out of 5, SD = 1.454, Score = 52.6%). Attitude-wise, mothers reported initiating complementary feeding due to a perceived insufficiency of breast milk (Attitude: M = 1.60 out of 5, SD = 0.802, Score = 32.0%). However, mothers understood complementary feeding practices well (Practice: M = 49.68 out of 60, SD = 8.8, Score = 82.8%). Despite some awareness about sensitive health aspects such as food allergies, mothers lacked crucial knowledge regarding the enrichment of complementary food with iodized salt and iron-rich food. Mothers' decisions to initiate complementary feeding were largely driven by concerns about the sufficiency of their milk production. The study underlines the need for prenatal guidance and education for parents on desirable practices concerning complementary food.