Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding in slums of Dibrugarh Town and factors affecting the breastfeeding practice

IntroductionExclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is of critical importance for the growth and the development of children.ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of EBF and to study the factors affecting breastfeeding practices in slums of Dibrugarh district.MethodsA community based, cross-sectional study was conducted in an urban slum of Dibrugarh district, Assam, from March to May 2015 on 105 mothers having children 6–24 months of age.ResultsEBF for 6 months was done only among 41% while 59% practiced mixed feeding or EBF for various duration of time. Cow's milk, goat's milk, artificial infant milk substitute and other items were given in mixed feeding. Breastfeeding was initiated within 30–60 min of birth only in 71.4%. Prelacteal feed was given in 21%.ConclusionThere is a need to emphasize on breastfeeding practices among the mothers, as there are many wrong practices going on.