Prior to the implementation of the baby friendly hospital initiative(BFHI) which entails the adoption of the WHO/UNICEF ten steps to succesful breast feeding(BF), baseline study for knowledge,attitude and practice(KAP) was performed on the national level in both Egypt and Dubai. The studies included 1752 Egyptian pregnant or lactating mothers and 284 mothers having babies less than 12 months of age from Dubai.
The results have shown poor knowledge of the benefits of BF among Egyptian mothers(28.1%) being better in Dubian communities(42.2%).KAPs concerning the proper technique of BF were better in Egypt(56.7%) than in Dubai(14.7%). Postnatal practices were adequate in 41.6%and27.4% in Egyptian and Dubians respectively. KAPs in issues influencing adequate BF continuity were 72% among Egyptians and33.8% in Dubians.
The use of formula prior to the age of 4 months was widely accepted and practised in the Dubian communities(77.7%) with a far less use(7.9%) among the egyptians.The introduction of decoctions and complementary foods before 4 months of age was generally accepted and practised in Dubai(68.1% and81.9%)respectively being practised less often in Egypt(46.3% and 35.4%respectively). In conclusion BF promotion campaigns should emphasize lactation management issues, technique of BF and milk expression in both communities.It was clear that high socioeconomic standards and affluence adversely affected BR. Extensive efforts and cooperation is needed to implement the international code for marketing breast milk substitutes in the Arab world. CAccepted in 20/1/1993 |
