Publications

This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding exclusivebreastfeeding (EBF) among mothers attending vaccination and pediatric inpatient services atKampala International Teaching Hospital. Additionally, it sought to identify influentialvariables associated with exclusive breastfeeding practices in this cohort. Employing adescriptive cross-sectional survey, 187 respondents were randomly selected. Data collectioninvolved the utilization of a questionnaire, and analysis comprised descriptive statisticsfocusing on frequency and percentages. The study revealed significant findings: 71.2% ofrespondents were knowledgeable about the accurate definition and duration of exclusivebreastfeeding. Among them, 59.7% exclusively breastfed their infants for the recommendedinitial six months. Notably, 100% provided colostrum to their babies, recognizing itsnutritional and protective benefits, while 87% practiced on-demand breastfeeding.Furthermore, the study highlighted a positive attitude toward exclusive breastfeeding, with86.6% acknowledging breast milk's adequacy for infants during the first six months andrecognizing the mutual benefits of EBF for both infants and mothers. Regarding weaning,51% of respondents initiated it between 15 and 18 months, while 41% did so between 19 and24 months. The findings underscored a commendable level of breastfeeding knowledgeamong respondents, with a majority adhering to recommended EBF practices. Additionally,the overwhelmingly favorable attitude toward exclusive breastfeeding signifies its perceivedadvantages for both infants and mothers. This study emphasizes the importance ofcontinued support and education to reinforce positive breastfeeding practices amongmothers attending Kampala International Teaching Hospital.Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding, Babies, Newborn, Mothers, Weaned