Breastfeeding determinants in Cyprus: A cross-sectional study. Issue 6 (December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Isaia, Maria; Theodorou, Mamas; Galanis, Petros; Nikolentzos, Athanasios; Polyzos, Nikolaos
• Is Part Of: Journal of neonatal nursing. Volume 23:Issue 6(2017)
• Page Start: 267
• Page End: 274
• Publication Date: 2017-12
• Subjects: Breastfeeding -- Determinants -- Initiation -- Duration -- Exclusivity -- Cyprus; Newborn infants -- Care -- Periodicals; Newborn infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Neonatal intensive care -- Periodicals; Soins infirmiers en néonatologie -- Périodiques; Infant, Newborn, Diseases -- Periodicals; Intensive Care, Neonatal -- Periodicals; Neonatal Nursing -- Periodicals; 618.9200231
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jnn.2017.05.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1355-1841

Abstract

Abstract: Aim: To identify the determinants of breastfeeding initiation, duration and exclusivity in Cyprus. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted that included 128 mothers of infants aged 6–18 months. Data was collected using a questionnaire. A chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were performed for statistical analysis. Results: The only factor associated with breastfeeding initiation was care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. In-hospital formula supplementation and use of a pacifier were negatively associated with breastfeeding duration, whereas previous breastfeeding experience for more than one month and father's tertiary educational level were positively associated. In-hospital formula supplementation and free formula samples were negatively associated, and father's tertiary educational level was positively associated with breastfeeding exclusivity. Conclusions: Although breastfeeding initiation rates were high, breastfeeding duration was far from the international recommendations. The role of the healthcare professionals and the father could be important for breastfeeding outcomes.