Maternal approach to breast feeding and weaning at Alexandria, Tanta and Assiut: a comparative study

ABSTRACT

The difference between varieties of cultures and subcultures can be found in the same country in which the individuals are brought-up. This study aims to investigate the difference of maternal approach about breast feeding and weaning process in different subcultural group in Egypt. Three hundred mothers [representing equally Alexandria, Tanta in Delta region and Assuit in Upper Egypt] were interviewed in the out-patient clinics of the pediatric University hospitals in each of the three cities. The results showed that mothers knowledge and practice regarding breast feeding was generally satisfactory, but mothers in Alexandria and in Tanta had better knowledge than those of Assuit. Although mothers lacked knowledge regarding weaning process in the three cities, mothers of assuit showed the lowest percentage