Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Rate in Central Region of Ghana Health

Abstract

The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) has recently garnered significant attention from public health experts. Recognised as a cost-effective strategy, EBF significantly enhances the well-being of both mothers and infants. This study investigates the factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) practices in Ghana's Central Region, with a focus on the role of socio-demographic characteristics. The study used a cross-sectional study design and a structured questionnaire to collect data from 358 breastfeeding mothers across 15 health centres in the Central Region of Ghana. The findings reveal a weak but statistically significant correlation between socio-demographic characteristics and EBF practices (Pearson correlation r = 0.179, P = 0.001), indicating that factors such as maternal age, education, marital status, and number of births modestly influence EBF practices. Similarly, a weak negative correlation was observed between socio-demographic factors and current breastfeeding rates (Pearson correlation = 0.105 r = 0.105, P = 0.048), suggesting some level of impact by these variables. However, the relationship between working status and breastfeeding practices was found to be non-significant (Pearson correlation = 0.011, r = 0.011, P = 0.181). Based on these findings, the study recommends tailored public health interventions that address specific demographic characteristics, enhanced awareness and education on EBF, the development of breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies, and further research utilising qualitative methods to better understand the complexities of breastfeeding behavior.