Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices: Evidence from Empirical Studies and Implications for Maternal and Child Health in Damaturu

Abstract

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) during the first six months of life is essential for optimal infant growth and protection against childhood morbidity and mortality. Despite its benefits and widespread awareness, EBF practice remains suboptimal in many settings. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and challenges associated with EBF among antenatal clinic attendees in Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 246 antenatal clinic at-tendees in selected healthcare facilities in Damaturu. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured, interviewer-administered question-naire covering socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, practices, and chal-lenges related to EBF. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and mean agreement scores, were used to summarize the findings. Knowledge and EBF practice were categorized as good or poor using a 50% thresh-old. Results: Respondents were predominantly aged 36–45 years (51.2%), married (89.8%), Mus-lim (91.9%), and tertiary educated (57.7%). Knowledge of EBF was generally high, with 97% aware of EBF, 96% correctly identifying the recommended initiation time, and 94% knowing the recommended duration. Attitudes were also favourable, with an overall mean agreement of approximately 89%. However, only 63 respondents (25.6%) reported practising EBF, in-dicating a substantial gap between knowledge and practice. The major reported challenges were work-related demands (30%), perceived inadequate breast milk production (15%), fam-ily pressure (14%), cultural beliefs (11%), and maternal health issues (11%). Conclusion: Despite high knowledge and favourable attitudes, EBF practice was low among the respondents. Addressing workplace demands, perceived milk insufficiency, family and cultural influences, and maternal health concerns, alongside breastfeeding education, may improve adherence to recommended EBF practices.