Factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding in Sub-Saharan Africa: analysis of demographic and health surveys.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Low rates of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) contribute to high child mortality rates. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and factors influencing EBF in SSA using nationally representative data from the Demographic Health Survey program (DHS).

Methods

A cross-sectional study design using the most recent DHS data of 25 SSA countries from 2010 to 2023. A total of 17,431 women aged 15-49 years with infants below six months were included. Pearson's chi-square and multivariable logistic regression tests were used to test the association and predictors of EBF at a 95% confidence interval (CI) at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05.

Results

The pooled prevalence of EBF across 25 Sub-Saharan African countries was 49%, ranging from 83% in Burundi to 19% in Gabon

SUBMITTER: Koray MH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12080165 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature