1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
The Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS, 2008) report showed a 13% exclusive breastfeeding rate which is a decline from 17% indicated in 2003 report. The 2008 report also revealed that 34% of the infants aged 0-5 months were given plain water in addition to breast milk, while 10% were given non-milk liquids and juice and 6% were given milk other than breast milk. Furthermore, only 32% of children less than 24 months of age were still on breast milk. Considering the percentage of mothers practicing breast feeding, it should not be surprising that Nigeria is still saddled with high incidence of malnutrition and its associated infant mortality.
In Nigeria, the perception of mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding is discouraging as most mothers complain of financial and physical challenges, not having enough breast milk, working and breastfeeding, breast and nipples problem and pressure from family and sometimes the effects of drugs taken while breast feeding (Agunbaide & Ogunleye 2012). Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is recommended as the optimal method of infant feeding for the first six months of life due to its numerous health benefits, which include providing essential nutrients, strengthening the immune system, and reducing the risk of infections and chronic diseases (World Health Organization [WHO], 2022). Despite these benefits, the practice of exclusive breastfeeding remains below the recommended levels in many parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural areas like Kagarko Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State. Understanding the factors that influence the attitudes and perceptions of nursing mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for developing effective interventions to improve breastfeeding rates.
In Nigeria, the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding faces numerous challenges, including cultural beliefs, socio-economic factors, and limited healthcare infrastructure. Studies have shown that in rural settings, many mothers are unaware of the importance of exclusive breastfeeding or face barriers such as inadequate support from healthcare providers and family members, which may lead them to introduce complementary foods before six months (Adebayo et al., 2018). Additionally, misconceptions about breastfeeding, such as the belief that breast milk is insufficient, further contribute to the low rates of exclusive breastfeeding (Ogunniyi et al., 2019).
Kagarko LGA, located in Kaduna State, represents a typical rural setting where these challenges are prevalent. The community's attitudes towards breastfeeding are shaped by deeply rooted cultural beliefs and practices, which often prioritize the introduction of complementary feeding early on. Furthermore, the lack of access to proper healthcare facilities and breastfeeding education exacerbates the situation. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the local context and the factors that influence nursing mothers' attitudes towards exclusive breastfeeding is essential for developing tailored strategies that can effectively promote and support breastfeeding in this region.
Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is widely recognized as the most beneficial method of infant feeding, providing essential nutrients and immunological protection to infants during the first six months of life. In Nigeria, however, the practice of exclusive breastfeeding remains suboptimal, despite numerous health campaigns promoting its benefits (World Health Organization [WHO], 2022). Kagarko LGA, like many rural regions in Nigeria, has been shown to experience lower rates of exclusive breastfeeding compared to urban areas. The reasons behind these low rates often include socio-cultural factors, lack of proper awareness, and inadequate support systems for breastfeeding mothers (Adebayo et al., 2018). Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to explore the factors that influence nursing mothers' attitudes and perceptions towards exclusive breastfeeding, including their knowledge of its benefits, socio-economic status, cultural influences, and the availability of healthcare support services.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that one major issue is the persistence of traditional beliefs and cultural practices that discourage exclusive breastfeeding, with some mothers introducing complementary foods and liquids before the recommended six-month period (Olusanya et al., 2015). The economic challenges faced by nursing mothers also contribute to the problem. Many mothers in Kagarko LGA are unable to exclusively breastfeed due to the need to return to work shortly after childbirth, which hinders their ability to breastfeed frequently or for the recommended duration. Furthermore, limited access to skilled healthcare professionals in these areas is a significant barrier to providing support and guidance on breastfeeding practices (Abubakar et al., 2020).
In addition to these issues, there is a lack of adequate support systems for breastfeeding mothers, such as community-based initiatives or workplace policies that promote and support exclusive breastfeeding. The combination of these factors results in low rates of exclusive breastfeeding, which negatively impacts infant health and development in Kagarko LGA.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to assess the attitude and perception of nursing mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The specific objectives of the study are:
- To identify the challenges and barriers faced by nursing mothers in the region that affect their ability to exclusively breastfeed for the recommended duration.
- To evaluate the knowledge of nursing mothers in Kagarko Local Government Area regarding the benefits and guidelines of exclusive breastfeeding.
- To examine the cultural beliefs and practices that influence nursing mothers' decisions about exclusive breastfeeding in the community.
- To assess the impact of socio-economic factors (such as employment, income, and educational level) on the likelihood of nursing mothers adopting exclusive breastfeeding practices.
- To explore the role of healthcare providers in influencing the attitude of nursing mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding.
- To make recommendations based on the findings, aimed at improving exclusive breastfeeding practices among nursing mothers.
1.4 Research Questions
Based on the stated objectives, the following research questions are developed for the study on the attitude and perception of nursing mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State:
- What is the level of knowledge among nursing mothers in Kagarko Local Government Area regarding the benefits and guidelines of exclusive breastfeeding?
- How do cultural beliefs and practices influence the decisions of nursing mothers about exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area?
- What is the impact of socio-economic factors (such as employment, income, and educational level) on the likelihood of nursing mothers in Kagarko Local Government Area adopting exclusive breastfeeding practices?
- How do healthcare providers influence the attitude of nursing mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area?
- What are the challenges and barriers faced by nursing mothers in Kagarko Local Government Area that affect their ability to exclusively breastfeed for the recommended duration?
- What strategies can be recommended to improve exclusive breastfeeding practices among nursing mothers in Kagarko Local Government Area?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Based on the stated objectives, the following hypotheses are formulated for the study on the attitude and perception of nursing mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State:
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between the socio-economic status of nursing mothers and their attitude towards exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between the socio-economic status of nursing mothers and their attitude towards exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Cultural beliefs and practices do not significantly influence the perception and decision-making process of nursing mothers regarding exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
- H1: Cultural beliefs and practices significantly influence the perception and decision-making process of nursing mothers regarding exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
1.6 Significance of Study
The findings of this research will provide policymakers, health professionals, and community leaders with a clearer understanding of the barriers and motivators related to exclusive breastfeeding in this region. Additionally, the study will highlight the impact of socio-economic, cultural, and educational factors on breastfeeding attitudes, guiding future health education programs.
The results will also contribute to enhancing maternal and child health outcomes by promoting the adoption of exclusive breastfeeding practices, which are crucial for infant health and development.
Lastly, the study will be valuable in shaping public health strategies and policies aimed at addressing challenges related to infant nutrition in rural areas.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The scope of the research is focused on the attitude and perception of nursing mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State. It will cover a diverse range of factors, including socio-cultural beliefs, access to healthcare services, and educational interventions that may influence nursing mothers' decisions regarding exclusive breastfeeding.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The limitation of this study was the challenge of reaching a wide sample size due to geographical and logistical constraints within Kagarko Local Government Area. Also, limited access to remote or rural areas resulted in a smaller number of participants, which may have affected the generalizability of the findings.
Furthermore, the study was constrained by the availability of resources, including funding, which hindered the ability to extend the study to other regions in Kaduna State. There was also the issue of time constraints, which limited the duration available for data collection.
Additionally, some respondents were hesitant to fully disclose their personal experiences and perceptions, which could have influenced the accuracy of the data gathered.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Attitude: It refers to the established way in which nursing mothers think, feel, and behave towards exclusive breastfeeding. It encompasses their beliefs, emotions, and intentions regarding the practice, which can be influenced by cultural, personal, and societal factors (Ajzen, 1991).
Perception: It is the way in which nursing mothers interpret and make sense of exclusive breastfeeding, particularly in relation to its benefits, challenges, and societal acceptance. It shapes how they view the importance of breastfeeding and affects their decision to adopt or reject the practice (Lau, 2016).
Exclusive Breastfeeding: It is the practice of feeding infants only breast milk for the first six months of life, with no other liquids or solid foods, except for prescribed medications or supplements (World Health Organization [WHO], 2020). This practice is crucial for the infant's nutritional and emotional development.
Nursing Mothers: It refers to women who are in the process of breastfeeding their infants, typically within the first year of the child's life (Kramer & Kakuma, 2012).
Kagarko Local Government Area: It is one of the local government areas in Kaduna State, Nigeria, where the study is being conducted. It represents the community from which the nursing mothers were selected for the study, providing insight into their attitudes and perceptions about exclusive breastfeeding in that particular region.
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