UTILIZATION OF BREAST MILK SUBSTITUTES AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG PARTICIPANTS PAIRED WITH INFANTS VISITED HEALTH FACILITIES IN ADAMA TOWN, OROMIA, EASTERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Background: The global promotion of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of an infant's life is challenged by the presence of breast milk substitutes that is Alternative foods marketed as replacements for breast milk. The World Health Organization recognizes the unparalleled benefits of breastfeeding for infant growth and health, and understanding the utilization of breast milk substitutes becomes crucial. Despite this, a paucity of data exists regarding the prevalence breast milk substitute usage and its associated factors of in various regions, including eastern Ethiopia. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the Utilization of breast milk substitutes and associated factors among participants paired with infants who visited health facilities in Adama town, Oromia, Eastern Ethiopia, from October 1 - 30, 2022. Methods: Using an institutional-based cross-sectional design, a multi-stage random sampling approach was employed to identify and select a representative sample size of 510 participants. Data collection was carried out using rigorously pre-tested structured questionnaires. The collected data entered thorough using Epi-data 3.1 and analysis SPSS version 26, employing appropriate statistical techniques to derive meaningful insights. P value less than 0.25 was used as a candidate for multivariable analysis and the level of significance was declared at a p-value of <0.05. Results: The findings of the study revealed a breast milk substitute utilization rate of 53.9% among the participants. Intriguingly, several significant associations surfaced between breast milk substitute utilization and pertinent factors. Infant age exhibited a notable association (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 2.34; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.2-4.714), as did the mode of delivery (AOR = 3.8; 95% CI: 1.5-12.3), while participants knowledge (AOR = 3.4; 95% CI: 1.5-7.6) and participants attitude (AOR = 9.4; 95% CI: 3.84-22.85) also displayed significant associated with the outcome variable. Conclusion and Recommendation: In light of these study findings, it is evident that breast milk substitute utilization is a noteworthy phenomenon within the studied community. The observed associations between utilization and factors such as infant age, mode of delivery, knowledge, and attitude underscore the multifaceted nature of this issue. To address this, interventions must prioritize behavioral change communication strategies to foster a culture of exclusive breastfeeding, collaborative efforts, orchestrated by the Adama Town Health Office and involving stakeholders, are instrumental in realizing this transformative shift in infant feeding practices.