Patterns of feeding in children under eighteen month of age in Multan; a hospital based study

ABSTRACT

To see the patterns of feeding in children under eighteen months of age in Multan region. An observational cross-sectional study. Two hundred mothers were interviewed about their infant feeding practices who were admitted in Pediatric ward and/or attending OPD at Children Hospital Multan from 1 January 2009 to 26 March, 2009.Information was collected on a predesigned questionnaire. Exclusive breast feeding declines with age. [Only 24% between the ages of 7 to 12 month]. Continued breastfeeding was practiced more by educated mothers [intermediate and above] 21 out of 23. Only 86 babies were taking complementary feeds, it was seen more between 13 to 18 months of age. Homemade complementary foods were used more as compared to commercial foods Lack of maternal awareness and education about feeding practices was responsible for rapid decline in breast feeding. Therefore it is the dire need to educate the mothers about correct feeding practices for the healthy growth of children in society