Knowledge, attitude, and practice among mothers toward breastfeeding and complementary feeding in community health setting, Malaysia.

BACKGROUND

Breastfeeding for the first six months and complementary feeding until twelve months are crucial for child growth. A mother's knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on infant feeding significantly impact infant development.

OBJECTIVE

To assess mothers' KAP toward breastfeeding and complementary feeding.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional study of 200 mothers with 18- to 24-month-old children at six suburban health clinics in Malaysia. Data were collected via a self-explanatory questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and Spearman's Rho.

RESULTS

Most mothers had good KAP: 72.5 % had good knowledge, 75.5 % had a positive attitude, and 87 % had good practice. Factors such as maternal age (30-39), multiparity, and vaginal delivery were associated with KAP. Significant positive correlations were found between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.591) and attitude and practice (r = 0.525).

CONCLUSIONS

Continued education on breastfeeding and complementary feeding is essential for improving infant feeding practice, and enhancing child development, potentially reducing healthcare costs.