Discriminant Analysis of Infant Feeding Patterns Among Infants Aged 6–24 Months in Al-Aflaj Governorate, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Breastfeeding (BF) is the safest option for feeding infants in the first six months of a baby's life. But their rates are still low globally. This necessitates developing evidence-based interventions to support BF, which requires an understanding of the factors that affect infant feeding patterns. The current study was based on a conceptual framework that classifies determinants of infant feeding patterns into structural, cultural, psychological and physical, and institutional domains, consistent with contemporary maternal and child health theories. This is the first national study in the Al-Aflaj region of Saudi Arabia, where a cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Aflaj General Hospital and healthcare centers. 653 infants, aged 6 to 24 months, were included in the final analysis. 653 infants, aged 6 to 24 months, were included in the final analysis. Results of discriminant analysis were presented as standardized coefficients to identify the factors significantly associated with infant feeding. Although patterns. It was categorized as three outcomes (3) practicing exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), (2) mixed BF, and (1) formula feeding.  Results of the current study revealed that the rate of mixed feeding was 37.5%, followed by EBF at 35.5% and formula feeding at 27%. The discriminant analysis (DA) demonstrated a good fit and strong classification accuracy (91.4%). Strong positive predictors are colostrum feeding (0.985), accurate knowledge of the definition of EBF (0.670), antenatal care visits (0.620), rooming-in (24 hours) (0.568), BF initiation within three days (0.549), antenatal BF education (0.530), mode of delivery (0.524), Knowledge of EBF benefits (0.518), husband’s support and family (0.465. Conversely, the variables least likely to practice EBF include work and study pressures (-1.024), insufficient milk supply (-0.663), traditions and beliefs related to BF, (-0.537), and prelacteal feeding (-.340). Institutional determinants also demonstrated a positive effect on exclusive breastfeeding, and structural, cultural, and psychological determinants indicated a dual role of facilitating or hindering EBF. Considering the results of this study, a systematic program to advance EBF is recommended. Enhance prenatal and postnatal education by highlighting the advantages of colostrum, the need of starting breastfeeding early, and knowledge of BFHI. Create policies at work that allow working mothers to breastfeed, such as flexible scheduling, lactation breaks, and support for a six-month maternity leave requirement. Addressing misconceptions and cultural barriers through community assistance and counseling.