Knowledge, attitude, and practice among mothers toward breastfeeding and complementary feeding in community health setting, Malaysia

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding for the first six months and complementary feeding until twelve months are crucial for child growth. A mother's knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on infant feeding significantly impact infant development. Objective: To assess mothers' KAP toward breastfeeding and complementary feeding. Methodology: A cross-sectional study of 200 mothers with 18- to 24-month-old children at six suburban health clinics in Malaysia. Data were collected via a self-explanatory questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and Spearman's Rho. Results: Most mothers had good KAP: 72.5 % had good knowledge, 75.5 % had a positive attitude, and 87 % had good practice. Factors such as maternal age (30–39), multiparity, and vaginal delivery were associated with KAP. Significant positive correlations were found between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.591) and attitude and practice (r = 0.525). Conclusions: Continued education on breastfeeding and complementary feeding is essential for improving infant feeding practice, and enhancing child development, potentially reducing healthcare costs.

Keywords

• Knowledge
• Attitude
• Practice
• Breastfeeding
• Complementary feeding
• Community health setting