Sources of Information on and Perceptions Related to Infant and Young Child Feeding among Fathers: A Cross‑Sectional Study from Southern India

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Medical Journal of Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth

Abstract

Introduction: The infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices determine the well‑being of the child. Reliable and updated information is essential to have adequate feeding practices for young children. This also applies to the fathers of children. The sources of information and related factors are crucial in improving paternal IYCF practices. Methodology: This study assessed the perceptions, preferred sources of information of the fathers regarding IYCF, and associated factors. This paper includes a part of the community‑based cross‑sectional phase from a larger multiphase study carried out among 450 fathers of young children (aged <2 years) in a rapidly developing coastal district of the South Indian State of Karnataka. Data were analyzed using Jamovi software version 2.3.26. Results: The age of the participants ranged from 23 to 56 (mean: 34.6 years +/‑ 5.4); 46.7% of participants preferred relatives and friends, and 38.9% preferred healthcare providers as sources of information on IYCF. Those residing in predominantly rural areas were more likely to consult health care providers for information on IYCF (OR 3.50 (95% CI 1.98–6.53; P < 0.001)). Also, 77.3% of participants felt weaning must be started after 6 months of age. Nearly half of the participants were aware of the exact nature of food items to be introduced during weaning of their child. Conclusions: A high proportion of the participants felt the need to update their knowledge of IYCF. Nearly one‑third of them preferred healthcare providers as a source of information. Participants from predominantly rural areas preferred healthcare providers as compared to those from urban areas.

First Page

99

Last Page

104

DOI

10.4103/mjdrdypu.mjdrdypu_986_23

Publication Date

1-1-2025

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