Infant and Young Child Feeding in Children under-5 Years in Ghana: Key Strategy to Childhood Development
Paschal Awingura Apanga *
Talensi District Hospital, Ghana Health Service, Tongo, Upper East Region, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: To explore the challenges mothers encounter during infant and young child feeding in children under-5 years and to make recommendations to overcome these challenges. This is paramount as feeding practices in children under- 5 years is essential for optimal infant and young child development.
Methodology: A literature review of selected papers from PubMed, Google scholar, Embase and Medline were used. Also, relevant hand searched books, policy documents, reports and case studies were used in the analysis.
Results: Traditional practices, family pressure, problems with nipples/breasts, sagging of breast, cost of feeds and lack of knowledge were major factors that hindered the recommended practice of infant and young child feeding in children under-5years in Ghana. However, attending antenatal care services, delivery at a health facility and family support were factors that enhanced its practice.
Conclusion: Educate communities in Ghana especially pregnant women and mothers on the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding in children under-5 years. Pregnant women should be encouraged to attend antenatal care services and deliver at a health facility. Families should also be encouraged to support pregnant women and mothers.
Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding, malnutrition, newborn, infant, child, mothers, pregnant women