Breastfeeding infants is a public health priority because of its considerable benefit. This study aims to demonstrate why exactly this seems to be the case. Recent studies have shown that it protects the health of the infant, decreases the chances of metabolic disorders, and the rate of child mortality.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Social Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding
2.1 Economic Stability.
2.2 Education
2.3 Social and Community Context
2.4 Culture and family support
2.5 Health and Health Care
3. Implications
Research Objectives and Themes
The primary objective of this work is to analyze the social determinants of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) practices in Nigeria. It seeks to explore how socioeconomic, cultural, and healthcare factors influence the rates of exclusive breastfeeding and to evaluate the effectiveness of national policies and initiatives aimed at promoting these practices.
- Analysis of the impact of economic stability and employment on breastfeeding exclusivity.
- Evaluation of the influence of maternal education and formal schooling.
- Examination of cultural barriers and the role of family support systems in infant feeding.
- Assessment of the healthcare system's role, including prenatal care and professional guidance.
- Review of national policies and the implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative.
Excerpt from the Book
Social Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding
Certain factors have fundamental influence over the health status of an individual, they include the political, socio-economic and cultural conditions that could mould the health status of an individual and a nation (Raphael 2008, p.2, WHO, 2008). Citing international directives on exclusive breastfeeding and its conventional advantages, this exercise is less than average in most developing countries inclusive of Nigeria (Haroon et al, 2013; Salami, 2006). In a bid to understand why EBF is at an unsatisfactory level In Nigeria, studies have been done to identify likely trends and factors (Ogbo et al, 2008; Ogunlesi, 2010 pp. 459-465; Agho et al, 2011, Salami, 2006) and amongst identified elements, Ogbo et al, 2008, mentioned geopolitical location, finance, health services and individual factors (age of the mother, occupation and babies' gender and family condition) as some of the determinants of EBF in nursing mothers. In this review, the Healthy People 2020 approach to Social Determinants of Health ( Healthy People, 2020), would be assessed in regards to the exclusive breastfeeding practices in Nigeria and these include;
Summary of Chapters
Introduction: Provides an overview of the health benefits of breastfeeding and the current statistics regarding exclusive breastfeeding rates in Nigeria.
Social Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding: Examines various socio-economic and environmental factors that affect the decision and ability of mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding.
Economic Stability.: Discusses the link between financial status, employment, and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers.
Education: Explores how formal education levels influence a mother's likelihood to exclusively breastfeed her infant.
Social and Community Context: Introduces the framework for understanding broader community influences on infant feeding practices.
Culture and family support: Investigates the impact of cultural beliefs, traditional practices, and family dynamics on breastfeeding habits.
Health and Health Care: Analyzes the role of health professionals, prenatal visits, and medical interventions in shaping breastfeeding success.
Implications: Evaluates national policies and health initiatives, such as the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, and suggests future improvements.
Keywords
Exclusive Breastfeeding, Nigeria, Infant Nutrition, Public Health, Socioeconomic Determinants, Maternal Education, Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, Child Mortality, Healthcare Policy, Cultural Practices, Breastfeeding Promotion, Maternal Employment, Postnatal Care, Colostrum, Infant Health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this document?
The document focuses on the social determinants that affect the practice of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in Nigeria, highlighting the gap between global recommendations and local realities.
What are the core thematic areas covered in the analysis?
The work covers economic stability, maternal education, community and cultural contexts, and the influence of the healthcare system on breastfeeding practices.
What is the central research question?
The work seeks to identify why the practice of exclusive breastfeeding remains at an unsatisfactory level in Nigeria despite the known health benefits for infants and mothers.
What scientific approach or methodology is used?
The study utilizes a review approach, synthesizing existing literature, demographic health surveys, and reports to assess the impact of various determinants on EBF.
What is addressed in the main body of the work?
The main body breaks down specific factors such as geopolitical location, employment, cultural beliefs (e.g., herbal concoctions), and healthcare access to understand their impact on breastfeeding.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
Key terms include Exclusive Breastfeeding, Nigeria, Socioeconomic Determinants, Public Health, and Maternal Education.
How does maternal employment affect breastfeeding exclusivity?
Studies cited indicate that working mothers, especially those in formal employment, are less likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding due to time constraints and a lack of workplace support.
What role does the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative play in Nigeria?
The initiative was designed to encourage EBF, but its impact has been limited in Nigeria due to issues in implementation and a lack of sustained support in rural areas.
What specific cultural barriers are identified?
Barriers include the practice of giving herbal concoctions or water to newborns, the view that colostrum is harmful in some regions, and familial pressure against exclusive breastfeeding.
What recommendations does the author make for improving EBF rates?
The author recommends community-based initiatives, improved legislation for working mothers, and better training for traditional birth attendants to support exclusive breastfeeding.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Anonym (Autor:in), 2020, Breastfeeding in West Africa, Nigeria. A Look on its Health Benefits, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1027075
