RESUMO
PIP: Infant feeding issues and research commonly portray infant feeding practices as a dichotomous variable; i.e., breastfeeding vs. bottlefeeding. This research establishes the complexity and variability in infant feeding patterns in 3 sites in the developing world. Comparative data are presented on the modes and products used to feed infants in Kinshasa, Zaire; St. Kitts-Nevis, West indies; and Cebu City, Philippines. They demonstrate that in these areas most infants receive some breastmilk. Bottlefeeding is also common but is rarely the exclusive mode of feeding. And the prevalence, manner of use, and role of the bottle varies among the 3 sites. Early supplementation of breastmilk by a variety of liquids, semisolids, and solids is typical of all 3 areas. These findings have important implications for educators and policymakers, as well as for research efforts relating infant feeding practices to infant health outcomes.^ieng