The impact of complementary feeding education for mothers using mobile phone applications on the anthropometric indices of Iranian infants

Abstract

Background Maternal education is often linked to improved awareness. This study aimed to determine the impact of complementary feeding education for mothers using mobile phone applications on the anthropometric indices of Iranian infants. Methods This quasi-experiment study involved 86 eligible women divided into two groups—intervention ( n = 43) and control ( n = 43)—using a multistage sampling method. A researcher-designed questionnaire collected demographic data from parents and infants. Education was delivered through a mobile phone application. Infant anthropometric indices (weight-for-age, length-for-age, and weight-for-length) were measured before and 3 months after the intervention. Statistical analysis included independent t -tests, paired t -tests, chi-square tests (or Cochran–Armitage tests), and analysis of covariance. Results The mean weight-for-age Z -scores of the infants in the intervention group were significantly different before (0.07 ± 0.52) and after the intervention (0.37 ± 0.53) ( p < .001), while this difference was not significant in the control group. The mean infant weight-for-length Z score in the intervention group was significantly different before (0.09 ± 0.72) and after the intervention (0.29 ± 0.63) ( p = .015); however, in the control group, the difference was not statistically significant. The mean length-for-age Z score in the intervention group was significantly different before (0.12 ± 0.68) and after the intervention (0.40 ± 0.76) ( p = .006). In contrast, in the control group, the mean length-for-age Z score after the intervention (−0.03 ± 0.84) decreased compared to that before the intervention (0.38 ± 0.75) ( p < .001). Conclusion The study demonstrated that educating mothers on complementary feeding through mobile phone applications positively impacted infant anthropometric indices. Healthcare providers are encouraged to use this educational approach to prevent infant growth disorders.