Is maternal body weight or composition associated with onset of lactogenesis II, human milk production or infant consumption of mother's own milk? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Maternal adiposity impacts lactation performance, but the pathways are unclear. We conducted a systematic review to understand whether maternal adiposity (body mass index [BMI] or % fat mass) is associated with onset of lactogenesis II (copious milk; hours), human milk production (expressed volume/24hrs), and infant consumption of mother's own milk (volume/24hrs). We used random-effects standard meta-analyses to compare the relative risk (RR) of delayed lactogenesis II (>72 hours) between mothers classified as underweight (BMI <18.5kg/m2), healthy weight (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2), and overweight/obese (BMI >25kg/m2) and random-effects meta-regressions to examine associations with hours to lactogenesis II and infant milk consumption. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. We included 122 articles. Mothers with underweight (RR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.46, 0.83; I2= 46.27%; 8 articles/datapoints) or healthy weight status (RR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.84; I2= 64.41%; 15 articles/datapoints) were less likely to experience delayed lactogenesis II than mothers with overweight/obesity. We found no association between maternal BMI and time onset of lactogenesis II (ß= 1.45 hours; 95% CI: -3.19, 6.09; p= 0.52, I2= 0.00%; 8 articles, 15 datapoints). Due to limited data, we narratively reviewed articles examining BMI or % fat mass and milk production (n=6); half reported an inverse association, and half no association. We found no association between maternal BMI (ß= 5.84mL; 95% CI: -11.92, 23.60; p= 0.51, I2= 44.18 %; 58 articles, 75 datapoints) nor % fat mass (ß= 6.54mL; 95% CI: -3.60, 16.68; p= 0.20, I2= 21.40%; 30 articles, 32 datapoints) and infant milk consumption. Certainty of evidence for all outcomes was very low. In conclusion, mothers with overweight/obesity may be at risk of delayed lactogenesis II. Available data do not support an association with infant milk consumption but included studies do not adequately represent mothers with obesity. PROSPERO REGISTRATION #: 285344 STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: While results suggest mothers with overweight/obesity may be at risk of delayed lactogenesis II, it is important to note that available data do not adequately represent mothers at the higher end of the BMI and % fat mass spectrum (BMI >30 kg/m2, % fat mass >40%). Future research should explore the association between maternal body weight or composition and lactation outcomes including onset of lactogenesis II, human milk production and infant consumption of mother's own milk among mothers with greater variability in weight status. Understanding these relationships may help guide the creation of more specialized lactation care for mothers of all body sizes.

Determinants of continued breastfeeding in children aged 12–23 months in three regions of Haiti / Determinantes de la continuación de la lactancia materna en la población infantil de entre 12 y 23 meses en tres regiones de Haití / Determinantes do aleitamento materno continuado em crianças de 12 a 23 meses de idade em três regiões do Haiti

[ABSTRACT]. Objectives To identify the prevalence and determinants of continued breastfeeding in Haitian children aged 12–23 months. Methods Three cross-sectional surveys were conducted yearly during the summers of 2017 to 2019 as part of a 4-year (2016–2020) multisectoral maternal and infant health initiative in the regions of Les Cayes, Jérémie, and Anse d’Hainault in Haiti. A total of 455 children 12–23 months of age and their mothers participated in the study. A child was considered to be continuing breastfeeding if the mother reported giving breast milk in the 24-hour dietary recall. Unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated, and associations were assessed between continued breastfeeding and explanatory factors related to sociodemographic character- istics, household food security, maternal nutrition, and breastfeeding knowledge and practices. Results The prevalence of continued breastfeeding was 45.8%. Continued breastfeeding was significantly more prevalent among younger children, children who did not have a younger sibling, children whose mother was not pregnant, those living in the Jérémie region, children who had been exclusively breastfed for less than 1 month, and children whose mother knew the World Health Organization’s recommendation for continued breastfeeding up to 2 years or beyond. Conclusions The study results highlight the need for geographically equitable access to tailored and adequate health services and education that support breastfeeding in a way that is compatible with the local context.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivos. Determinar la prevalencia y los determinantes asociados a la continuación de la lactancia materna en la población infantil haitiana de entre 12 y 23 meses. Métodos. Durante los veranos del 2017 al 2019 se llevaron a cabo tres encuestas transversales anuales como parte de una iniciativa multisectorial de salud materna e infantil de 4 años (2016 a 2020) en las regiones de Les Cayes, Jérémie y Anse d’Hainault de Haití. En el estudio participaron 455 menores de edades comprendidas entre 12 y 23 meses y sus madres. Se consideró que un menor continuaba con la lactancia materna si, en la evaluación de la alimentación basada en el recuerdo de 24 horas, la madre declaraba la toma de leche materna. Se calcularon los cocientes de prevalencia ajustados y sin ajustar y se evaluó la asociación entre la continuación de la lactancia materna y posibles factores explicativos relacionados con las características sociodemográficas, la seguridad alimentaria de la familia, la nutrición materna y los conocimientos y prácticas en materia lactancia materna. Resultados. La prevalencia de la continuación de la lactancia materna fue del 45,8%. Esta prevalencia fue significativamente mayor cuando se trataba de lactantes de menor edad, cuando no había hermanos menores, cuando la madre no estaba embarazada, en los residentes en la región de Jérémie, cuando había habido una alimentación exclusiva con leche materna durante menos de un mes y cuando la madre conocía la recomendación de la Organización Mundial de la Salud de continuar con la lactancia materna hasta los dos años o más. Conclusiones. Los resultados del estudio ponen de relieve la necesidad de disponer de un acceso geográfico equitativo a unos servicios de salud y una educación que respalden la lactancia materna de una manera compatible con el contexto local.

[RESUMO]. Objetivos Identificar a prevalência e os determinantes do aleitamento materno continuado em crianças haitianas de 12 a 23 meses de idade. Métodos Três pesquisas transversais foram realizadas anualmente nos verões de 2017 a 2019 como parte de uma iniciativa multissetorial de saúde materno-infantil de quatro anos (2016–2020) nas regiões de Les Cayes, Jérémie e Anse d’Hainault no Haiti. Um total de 455 crianças de 12 a 23 meses de idade e suas mães participaram do estudo. Considerou-se que a criança continuava sendo amamentada se a mãe relatasse ter dado leite materno no recordatório alimentar de 24 horas. Foram estimadas as taxas de prevalência não ajustadas e ajustadas e foram avaliadas as associações entre o aleitamento materno continuado e os fatores explicativos relacionados às características sociodemográficas, à segurança alimentar da família, à nutrição materna e aos conhecimentos e práticas de aleitamento materno. Resultados A prevalência de aleitamento materno continuado foi de 45,8%. O aleitamento materno continuado foi significativamente mais prevalente entre crianças mais novas, crianças que não tinham irmão mais novo, crianças cuja mãe não estava grávida, residentes da região de Jérémie, crianças que haviam sido exclusivamente amamentadas por menos de um mês e crianças cuja mãe conhecia a recomendação da Organização Mundial da Saúde de manter o aleitamento materno por 2 anos ou mais. Conclusões Os resultados do estudo destacam a necessidade de acesso geograficamente equitativo a educação e serviços de saúde adaptados e adequados para apoiar o aleitamento materno de forma compatível com o contexto local.

Determinants of continued breastfeeding in children aged 12-23 months in three regions of Haiti.

Objectives: To identify the prevalence and determinants of continued breastfeeding in Haitian children aged 12-23 months. Methods: Three cross-sectional surveys were conducted yearly during the summers of 2017 to 2019 as part of a 4-year (2016-2020) multisectoral maternal and infant health initiative in the regions of Les Cayes, Jérémie, and Anse d'Hainault in Haiti. A total of 455 children 12-23 months of age and their mothers participated in the study. A child was considered to be continuing breastfeeding if the mother reported giving breast milk in the 24-hour dietary recall. Unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated, and associations were assessed between continued breastfeeding and explanatory factors related to sociodemographic characteristics, household food security, maternal nutrition, and breastfeeding knowledge and practices. Results: The prevalence of continued breastfeeding was 45.8%. Continued breastfeeding was significantly more prevalent among younger children, children who did not have a younger sibling, children whose mother was not pregnant, those living in the Jérémie region, children who had been exclusively breastfed for less than 1 month, and children whose mother knew the World Health Organization's recommendation for continued breastfeeding up to 2 years or beyond. Conclusions: The study results highlight the need for geographically equitable access to tailored and adequate health services and education that support breastfeeding in a way that is compatible with the local context.

Household food insecurity is negatively associated with achievement of prenatal intentions to feed only breast milk in the first six months postpartum.

Background: Household food insecurity (HFI) has been associated with suboptimal breastfeeding practices. Postpartum factors reported by caregivers include stressful life circumstances and maternal diet quality concerns. It is unknown whether prenatal breast milk feeding intentions, a well-established predictor of breastfeeding outcomes, differ by HFI status. We explored associations between HFI and prenatal intentions to feed any and only breast milk in the first 6 months postpartum, and achievement of these intentions. Methods: We utilized data from self-identified biological mothers with children 6-12 months of age who responded to a retrospective, cross-sectional online infant feeding survey conducted in Nova Scotia, Canada. HFI (yes/no) was assessed using the Household Food Security Survey Module. Prenatal intentions to feed any and only breast milk were assessed based on responses to five options for infant milk feeding plans. Achievement of intentions was assessed by breast milk and formula feeding practices in the first 6 months. Multivariable logistic regressions were conducted, adjusting for maternal socio-demographics. Results: Among 459 respondents, 28% reported HFI; 88% intended to feed any breast milk and 77% intended to feed only breast milk, with no difference by HFI status. Of those intending to feed any breast milk, 99% succeeded, precluding further analysis. Among mothers who intended to provide only breast milk, only 51% achieved their intention, with lower odds among those with HFI (aOR 0.54, 95% CI 0.29-0.98). Conclusion: HFI was not associated with intentions for feeding breast milk in the first 6 months postpartum, but mothers with HFI were less likely to achieve their intention to provide only breast milk. Further research is needed to understand the underlying reasons for this and to guide intervention designs to address HFI and help mothers reach their breastfeeding goals.

Determinants of continued breastfeeding in children aged 12-23 months in three regions of Haiti / Determinantes de la continuación de la lactancia materna en la población infantil de entre 12 y 23 meses en tres regiones de Haití / Determinantes do aleitamento materno continuado em crianças de 12 a 23 meses de idade em três regiões do Haiti

ABSTRACT Objectives To identify the prevalence and determinants of continued breastfeeding in Haitian children aged 12-23 months. Methods Three cross-sectional surveys were conducted yearly during the summers of 2017 to 2019 as part of a 4-year (2016-2020) multisectoral maternal and infant health initiative in the regions of Les Cayes, Jérémie, and Anse d'Hainault in Haiti. A total of 455 children 12-23 months of age and their mothers participated in the study. A child was considered to be continuing breastfeeding if the mother reported giving breast milk in the 24-hour dietary recall. Unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated, and associations were assessed between continued breastfeeding and explanatory factors related to sociodemographic characteristics, household food security, maternal nutrition, and breastfeeding knowledge and practices. Results The prevalence of continued breastfeeding was 45.8%. Continued breastfeeding was significantly more prevalent among younger children, children who did not have a younger sibling, children whose mother was not pregnant, those living in the Jérémie region, children who had been exclusively breastfed for less than 1 month, and children whose mother knew the World Health Organization's recommendation for continued breastfeeding up to 2 years or beyond. Conclusions The study results highlight the need for geographically equitable access to tailored and adequate health services and education that support breastfeeding in a way that is compatible with the local context.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Determinar la prevalencia y los determinantes asociados a la continuación de la lactancia materna en la población infantil haitiana de entre 12 y 23 meses. Métodos. Durante los veranos del 2017 al 2019 se llevaron a cabo tres encuestas transversales anuales como parte de una iniciativa multisectorial de salud materna e infantil de 4 años (2016 a 2020) en las regiones de Les Cayes, Jérémie y Anse d'Hainault de Haití. En el estudio participaron 455 menores de edades comprendidas entre 12 y 23 meses y sus madres. Se consideró que un menor continuaba con la lactancia materna si, en la evaluación de la alimentación basada en el recuerdo de 24 horas, la madre declaraba la toma de leche materna. Se calcularon los cocientes de prevalencia ajustados y sin ajustar y se evaluó la asociación entre la continuación de la lactancia materna y posibles factores explicativos relacionados con las características sociodemográficas, la seguridad alimentaria de la familia, la nutrición materna y los conocimientos y prácticas en materia lactancia materna. Resultados. La prevalencia de la continuación de la lactancia materna fue del 45,8%. Esta prevalencia fue significativamente mayor cuando se trataba de lactantes de menor edad, cuando no había hermanos menores, cuando la madre no estaba embarazada, en los residentes en la región de Jérémie, cuando había habido una alimentación exclusiva con leche materna durante menos de un mes y cuando la madre conocía la recomendación de la Organización Mundial de la Salud de continuar con la lactancia materna hasta los dos años o más. Conclusiones. Los resultados del estudio ponen de relieve la necesidad de disponer de un acceso geográfico equitativo a unos servicios de salud y una educación que respalden la lactancia materna de una manera compatible con el contexto local.

RESUMO Objetivos Identificar a prevalência e os determinantes do aleitamento materno continuado em crianças haitianas de 12 a 23 meses de idade. Métodos Três pesquisas transversais foram realizadas anualmente nos verões de 2017 a 2019 como parte de uma iniciativa multissetorial de saúde materno-infantil de quatro anos (2016-2020) nas regiões de Les Cayes, Jérémie e Anse d'Hainault no Haiti. Um total de 455 crianças de 12 a 23 meses de idade e suas mães participaram do estudo. Considerou-se que a criança continuava sendo amamentada se a mãe relatasse ter dado leite materno no recordatório alimentar de 24 horas. Foram estimadas as taxas de prevalência não ajustadas e ajustadas e foram avaliadas as associações entre o aleitamento materno continuado e os fatores explicativos relacionados às características sociodemográficas, à segurança alimentar da família, à nutrição materna e aos conhecimentos e práticas de aleitamento materno. Resultados A prevalência de aleitamento materno continuado foi de 45,8%. O aleitamento materno continuado foi significativamente mais prevalente entre crianças mais novas, crianças que não tinham irmão mais novo, crianças cuja mãe não estava grávida, residentes da região de Jérémie, crianças que haviam sido exclusivamente amamentadas por menos de um mês e crianças cuja mãe conhecia a recomendação da Organização Mundial da Saúde de manter o aleitamento materno por 2 anos ou mais. Conclusões Os resultados do estudo destacam a necessidade de acesso geograficamente equitativo a educação e serviços de saúde adaptados e adequados para apoiar o aleitamento materno de forma compatível com o contexto local.

Review of intervention products for use in the prevention and control of anemia.

Anemia remains a major public health problem, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization recommends several interventions to prevent and manage anemia in vulnerable population groups, including young children, menstruating adolescent girls and women, and pregnant and postpartum women. Daily iron supplementation reduces the risk of anemia in infants, children, and pregnant women, and intermittent iron supplementation reduces anemia risk in menstruating girls and women. Micronutrient powders reduce the risk of anemia in children. Fortifying wheat flour with iron reduces the risk of anemia in the overall population, whereas the effect of fortifying maize flour and rice is still uncertain. Regarding non-nutrition-related interventions, malaria treatment and deworming have been reported to decrease anemia prevalence. Promising interventions to prevent anemia include vitamin A supplementation, multiple micronutrient supplementation for pregnant women, small-quantity lipid-based supplements, and fortification of salt with iodine and iron. Future research could address the efficacy and safety of different iron supplementation formulations, identify the most bioavailable form of iron for fortification, examine adherence to supplementation regimens and fortification standards, and investigate the effectiveness of integrating micronutrient, helminth, and malaria control programs.

Integrating and coordinating programs for the management of anemia across the life course.

Anemia is a major global public health concern with a complex etiology. The main determinants are nutritional factors, infection and inflammation, inherited blood disorders, and women's reproductive biology, but the relative role of each varies between settings. Effective anemia programming, therefore, requires evidence-based, data-driven, contextualized multisectoral strategies, with coordinated implementation. Priority population groups are preschool children, adolescent girls, and pregnant and nonpregnant women of reproductive age. Opportunities for comprehensive anemia programming include: (i) bundling interventions through shared delivery platforms, including antenatal care, community-based platforms, schools, and workplaces; (ii) integrating delivery platforms to extend reach; (iii) integrating anemia and malaria programs in endemic areas; and (iv) integrating anemia programming across the life course. Major barriers to effective anemia programming include weak delivery systems, lack of data or poor use of data, lack of financial and human resources, and poor coordination. Systems strengthening and implementation research approaches are needed to address critical gaps, explore promising platforms, and identify solutions to persistent barriers to high intervention coverage. Immediate priorities are to close the gap between access to service delivery platforms and coverage of anemia interventions, reduce subnational coverage disparities, and improve the collection and use of data to inform anemia strategies and programming.

Household food insecurity is prevalent in a cohort of postpartum women who registered in the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program in Toronto.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence, severity and socio-demographic predictors of household food insecurity among vulnerable women accessing the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) and to examine associations between household food insecurity and breastfeeding practices to 6 months. DESIGN: Cohort investigation pooling data from two studies which administered the 18-item Household Food Security Survey Module at 6 months postpartum and collected prospective infant feeding data at 2 weeks and 2, 4 and 6 months. Household food insecurity was classified as none, marginal, moderate or severe. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess predictors of household food insecurity and associations between household food security (any and severity) and continued and exclusive breastfeeding. SETTING: Three Toronto sites of the CPNP, a federal initiative targeting socially and/or economically vulnerable women. PARTICIPANTS: 316 birth mothers registered prenatally in the CPNP from 2017 to 2020. RESULTS: Household food insecurity at 6 months postpartum was highly prevalent (44 %), including 11 % in the severe category. Risk of household food insecurity varied by CPNP site (P < 0·001) and was higher among multiparous participants (OR 2·08; 95 % CI 1·28, 3·39). There was no association between the prevalence or severity of food insecurity and continued or exclusive breastfeeding to 6 months postpartum in the adjusted analyses. CONCLUSIONS: Household food insecurity affected nearly half of this cohort of women accessing the CPNP. Further research is needed on household food insecurity across the national CPNP and other similar programmes, with consideration of the implications for programme design, service delivery and policy responses.

Determinants of exclusive breastfeeding among Haitian children under 6 months of age.

Objective: To identify the determinants of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among children under 6 months of age from three regions in the South and Grand'Anse Departments of Haiti. Methods: Data were pooled from three cross-sectional surveys conducted yearly from 2017 to 2019 with the guardians of 638 children under 6 months of age. A non-quantitative 24-hour dietary recall was used to assess EBF the day before the survey. Using unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios, associations were assessed between EBF and several explanatory factors: infant's age and sex; maternal age, educational attainment, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), dietary diversity, number of children under 5 years of age, responsibility for the main or secondary source of income of the household, initiation of breastfeeding within one hour, knowledge of EBF duration; household severe food insecurity, socioeconomic status, dependency ratio, region, and residential zone (urban/rural). Results: Prevalence of EBF was 68% in the study sample. From the fully adjusted model, prevalence of EBF was statistically significantly higher among younger infants, mothers with larger MUAC, who met or exceeded Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W), who initiated breastfeeding within one hour, who were knowledgeable of the recommendations for EBF duration, and living in the Jérémie region. Conclusions: The main determinants of EBF identified in this study attest to the importance of breastfeeding mothers' access to nutritious food for the practice and maintenance of EBF and the need for geographically equitable access to health services and education that support breastfeeding.

Determinants of exclusive breastfeeding among Haitian children under 6 months of age

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To identify the determinants of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among children under 6 months of age from three regions in the South and Grand’Anse Departments of Haiti. Methods. Data were pooled from three cross-sectional surveys conducted yearly from 2017 to 2019 with the guardians of 638 children under 6 months of age. A non-quantitative 24-hour dietary recall was used to assess EBF the day before the survey. Using unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios, associations were assessed between EBF and several explanatory factors: infant’s age and sex; maternal age, educational attainment, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), dietary diversity, number of children under 5 years of age, responsibility for the main or secondary source of income of the household, initiation of breastfeeding within one hour, knowledge of EBF duration; household severe food insecurity, socioeconomic status, dependency ratio, region, and residential zone (urban/rural). Results. Prevalence of EBF was 68% in the study sample. From the fully adjusted model, prevalence of EBF was statistically significantly higher among younger infants, mothers with larger MUAC, who met or exceeded Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W), who initiated breastfeeding within one hour, who were knowledgeable of the recommendations for EBF duration, and living in the Jérémie region. Conclusions. The main determinants of EBF identified in this study attest to the importance of breastfeeding mothers’ access to nutritious food for the practice and maintenance of EBF and the need for geographically equitable access to health services and education that support breastfeeding.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Determinar cuáles son los determinantes de la lactancia materna exclusiva en menores de 6 meses de edad de tres regiones de los departamentos Sur y Grand'Anse de Haití. Métodos. Se agruparon los datos de tres encuestas transversales realizadas anualmente entre 2017 y 2019 a representantes de 638 bebés menores de 6 meses de edad. Se empleó una descripción no cuantitativa de los alimentos consumidos en las últimas 24 horas para evaluar la lactancia materna exclusiva el día anterior a la encuesta. Mediante cocientes de prevalencia ajustados y no ajustados, se evaluó la relación entre la lactancia materna exclusiva y varios factores explicativos: sobre el lactante: edad y sexo; sobre la madre: edad, nivel educativo, circunferencia del brazo media, diversidad alimentaria, número de hijos menores de 5 años y responsabilidad como fuente principal o secundaria de ingresos del hogar; inicio de la lactancia materna en un plazo de una hora después del nacimiento y conocimiento sobre la duración de la lactancia materna exclusiva; inseguridad alimentaria grave en el hogar, situación socioeconómica y tasa de dependencia; y región y zona residencial (urbana/rural). Resultados. La prevalencia de la lactancia materna exclusiva fue de 68% en la muestra del estudio. A partir del modelo totalmente ajustado, la prevalencia de la lactancia materna exclusiva fue significativamente mayor desde un punto de vista estadístico en los bebés más pequeños, las madres con una mayor circunferencia del brazo media, la que cumplieron o excedieron la Diversidad Alimentaria Mínima para las Mujeres, las que iniciaron la lactancia materna dentro de una hora después del parto, las que conocían bien las recomendaciones sobre la duración de la lactancia materna exclusiva y las que vivían en la región de Jérémie. Conclusiones. Los principales determinantes de la lactancia materna exclusiva identificados en este estudio confirman la importancia de que las madres lactantes tengan acceso a alimentos nutritivos para la práctica y el mantenimiento de la lactancia materna exclusiva, así como la necesidad de disponer de un acceso geográfico equitativo a los servicios de salud y la educación que respaldan la lactancia materna.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Identificar os determinantes do aleitamento materno exclusivo (AME) entre crianças com menos de 6 meses de idade de três regiões dos departamentos Sul e Grand’Anse do Haiti. Métodos. Agruparam-se dados de três pesquisas transversais realizadas anualmente, de 2017 a 2019, com pais e responsáveis de 638 crianças com menos de 6 meses de idade. Um recordatório alimentar não quantitativo de 24 horas foi utilizado para avaliar o AME no dia anterior à pesquisa. Usando taxas não ajustadas e ajustadas de prevalência, avaliou-se a associação entre AME e diversos fatores explicativos: idade e sexo do bebê; idade da mãe, seu nível de escolaridade, circunferência do braço (CB), diversidade da dieta, número de filhos com menos de 5 anos, responsabilidade pela fonte primária ou secundária de renda da família, início do aleitamento materno na primeira hora, conhecimento sobre a duração do AME; insegurança alimentar domiciliar grave, status socioeconômico, índice de dependência, região e zona residencial (urbana/rural). Resultados. A prevalência de AME na amostra do estudo foi de 68%. Com base no modelo totalmente ajustado, a prevalência do AME foi maior, de forma estatisticamente significante, entre bebês mais jovens, mães com maior CB, que atendiam ou excediam a Diversidade Alimentar Mínima para Mulheres (MDD-W), que começaram a amamentar na primeira hora, que estavam familiarizadas com as recomendações sobre a duração do AME e que moravam na região de Jérémie. Conclusões. Os principais determinantes de AME identificados neste estudo atestam a importância do acesso das lactantes a alimentos nutritivos para a prática e a continuidade do AME, e a necessidade de acesso geograficamente equitativo a educação e serviços de saúde que apoiem o aleitamento materno.

Associations between use of expressed human milk at 2 weeks postpartum and human milk feeding practices to 6 months: a prospective cohort study with vulnerable women in Toronto, Canada.

OBJECTIVES: To examine whether use of expressed human milk in the first two weeks postpartum is associated with cessation of human milk feeding and non-exclusive human milk feeding up to 6 months. DESIGN: Pooled data from two prospective cohort studies SETTING: Three Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) sites serving vulnerable families in Toronto, Canada. PARTICIPANTS: 337 registered CPNP clients enrolled prenatally from 2017 to 2020; 315 (93%) were retained to 6 months postpartum. EXCLUSIONS: pregnancy loss or participation in prior related study; Study B: preterm birth (<34 weeks); plan to move outside Toronto; not intending to feed human milk; hospitalisation of mother or baby at 2 weeks postpartum. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Main exposure variable: any use of expressed human milk at 2 weeks postpartum. OUTCOMES: cessation of human milk feeding by 6 months; non-exclusive human milk feeding to 4 months and 6 months postpartum. RESULTS: All participants initiated human milk feeding and 80% continued for 6 months. Exclusive human milk feeding was practiced postdischarge to 4 months by 28% and to 6 months by 16%. At 2 weeks postpartum, 34% reported use of expressed human milk. Any use of expressed human milk at 2 weeks was associated with cessation of human milk feeding before 6 months postpartum (aOR 2.66; 95% CI 1.41 to 5.05) and with non-exclusive human milk feeding to 4 months (aOR 2.19; 95% CI 1.16 to 4.14) and 6 months (aOR 3.65; 95% CI 1.50 to 8.84). TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS: NCT03400605, NCT03589963.

High levels of breastmilk feeding despite a low rate of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months in a cohort of vulnerable women in Toronto, Canada.

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for 6 months is a global public health goal, but measuring its achievement as a marker of population breastmilk feeding practices is insufficient. Additional measures are needed to understand variation in non-EBF practices and inform intervention priorities. We collected infant feeding data prospectively at seven time points to 6 months post-partum from a cohort of vulnerable women (n = 151) registered at two Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program sites in Toronto, Canada. Four categories of breastmilk feeding intensity were defined. Descriptive analyses included the (i) proportion of participants in each feeding category by time point, (ii) use of formula and non-formula supplements to breastmilk, (iii) proportion of participants practising EBF continuously for at least 3 months; and (iv) frequency of transitions between feeding categories. All participants initiated breastmilk feeding with 70% continuing for 6 months. Only 18% practised EBF for 6 months, but 48% did so for at least 3 continuous months. The proportion in the EBF category was highest from 2 to 4 months post-partum. Supplemental formula use was highest in the first 3 months; early introduction of solids and non-formula fluids further compromised EBF at 5 and 6 months post-partum. Most participants (75%) transitioned between categories of breastmilk feeding intensity, with 35% making two or more transitions. Our data show high levels of breastmilk provision despite a low rate of EBF for 6 months. Inclusion of similar analyses in future prospective studies is recommended to provide more nuanced reporting of breastmilk feeding practices and guide intervention designs.

Determinants of exclusive breastfeeding among Haitian children under 6 months of age / Los determinantes de la lactancia materna exclusiva en menores de 6 meses de edad en Haití / Determinantes do aleitamento materno exclusivo entre crianças haitianas com menos de 6 meses de idade

ABSTRACT Objective. To identify the determinants of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among children under 6 months of age from three regions in the South and Grand'Anse Departments of Haiti. Methods. Data were pooled from three cross-sectional surveys conducted yearly from 2017 to 2019 with the guardians of 638 children under 6 months of age. A non-quantitative 24-hour dietary recall was used to assess EBF the day before the survey. Using unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios, associations were assessed between EBF and several explanatory factors: infant's age and sex; maternal age, educational attainment, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), dietary diversity, number of children under 5 years of age, responsibility for the main or secondary source of income of the household, initiation of breastfeeding within one hour, knowledge of EBF duration; household severe food insecurity, socioeconomic status, dependency ratio, region, and residential zone (urban/rural). Results. Prevalence of EBF was 68% in the study sample. From the fully adjusted model, prevalence of EBF was statistically significantly higher among younger infants, mothers with larger MUAC, who met or exceeded Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W), who initiated breastfeeding within one hour, who were knowledgeable of the recommendations for EBF duration, and living in the Jérémie region. Conclusions. The main determinants of EBF identified in this study attest to the importance of breastfeeding mothers' access to nutritious food for the practice and maintenance of EBF and the need for geographically equitable access to health services and education that support breastfeeding.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Determinar cuáles son los determinantes de la lactancia materna exclusiva en menores de 6 meses de edad de tres regiones de los departamentos Sur y Grand'Anse de Haití. Métodos. Se agruparon los datos de tres encuestas transversales realizadas anualmente entre 2017 y 2019 a representantes de 638 bebés menores de 6 meses de edad. Se empleó una descripción no cuantitativa de los alimentos consumidos en las últimas 24 horas para evaluar la lactancia materna exclusiva el día anterior a la encuesta. Mediante cocientes de prevalencia ajustados y no ajustados, se evaluó la relación entre la lactancia materna exclusiva y varios factores explicativos: sobre el lactante: edad y sexo; sobre la madre: edad, nivel educativo, circunferencia del brazo media, diversidad alimentaria, número de hijos menores de 5 años y responsabilidad como fuente principal o secundaria de ingresos del hogar; inicio de la lactancia materna en un plazo de una hora después del nacimiento y conocimiento sobre la duración de la lactancia materna exclusiva; inseguridad alimentaria grave en el hogar, situación socioeconómica y tasa de dependencia; y región y zona residencial (urbana/rural). Resultados. La prevalencia de la lactancia materna exclusiva fue de 68 % en la muestra del estudio. A partir del modelo totalmente ajustado, la prevalencia de la lactancia materna exclusiva fue significativamente mayor desde un punto de vista estadístico en los bebés más pequeños, las madres con una mayor circunferencia del brazo media, la que cumplieron o excedieron la Diversidad Alimentaria Mínima para las Mujeres, las que iniciaron la lactancia materna dentro de una hora después del parto, las que conocían bien las recomendaciones sobre la duración de la lactancia materna exclusiva y las que vivían en la región de Jérémie. Conclusiones. Los principales determinantes de la lactancia materna exclusiva identificados en este estudio confirman la importancia de que las madres lactantes tengan acceso a alimentos nutritivos para la práctica y el mantenimiento de la lactancia materna exclusiva, así como la necesidad de disponer de un acceso geográfico equitativo a los servicios de salud y la educación que respaldan la lactancia materna.

RESUMO Objetivo. Identificar os determinantes do aleitamento materno exclusivo (AME) entre crianças com menos de 6 meses de idade de três regiões dos departamentos Sul e Grand'Anse do Haiti. Métodos. Agruparam-se dados de três pesquisas transversais realizadas anualmente, de 2017 a 2019, com pais e responsáveis de 638 crianças com menos de 6 meses de idade. Um recordatório alimentar não quantitativo de 24 horas foi utilizado para avaliar o AME no dia anterior à pesquisa. Usando taxas não ajustadas e ajustadas de prevalência, avaliou-se a associação entre AME e diversos fatores explicativos: idade e sexo do bebê; idade da mãe, seu nível de escolaridade, circunferência do braço (CB), diversidade da dieta, número de filhos com menos de 5 anos, responsabilidade pela fonte primária ou secundária de renda da família, início do aleitamento materno na primeira hora, conhecimento sobre a duração do AME; insegurança alimentar domiciliar grave, status socioeconômico, índice de dependência, região e zona residencial (urbana/rural). Resultados. A prevalência de AME na amostra do estudo foi de 68%. Com base no modelo totalmente ajustado, a prevalência do AME foi maior, de forma estatisticamente significante, entre bebês mais jovens, mães com maior CB, que atendiam ou excediam a Diversidade Alimentar Mínima para Mulheres (MDD-W), que começaram a amamentar na primeira hora, que estavam familiarizadas com as recomendações sobre a duração do AME e que moravam na região de Jérémie. Conclusões. Os principais determinantes de AME identificados neste estudo atestam a importância do acesso das lactantes a alimentos nutritivos para a prática e a continuidade do AME, e a necessidade de acesso geograficamente equitativo a educação e serviços de saúde que apoiem o aleitamento materno.

Characteristics of vulnerable women and their association with participation in a Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program site in Toronto, Canada. / Caractéristiques de femmes vulnérables en lien avec leur participation aux activités d'un centre du Programme canadien de nutrition prénatale à Toronto (Canada).

INTRODUCTION: The Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) supports community organizations to provide maternal-infant health services for socially/economically vulnerable women. As part of our research program exploring opportunities to provide postnatal breastfeeding support through the CPNP, we investigated the sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics of clients enrolled in a Toronto CPNP site and explored associations with participation. METHODS: Data were collected retrospectively from the charts of 339 women registered in one southwest Toronto CPNP site from 2013 to 2016. Multivariable regression analyses were used to assess associations between 10 maternal characteristics and three dimensions of prenatal program participation: initiation (gestational age at enrolment in weeks), intensity (number of times one-on-one supports were received) and duration (number of visits). RESULTS: The mean (SD) age of clients was 31 (5.7) years; 80% were born outside of Canada; 29% were single; and 65% had household incomes below the Statistics Canada family size-adjusted low-income cut-offs. Income was the only characteristic associated with all dimensions of participation. Compared to clients living above the low-income cut-off, those living below the low-income cut-off enrolled in the program 2.85 weeks earlier (95% CI: -5.55 to -0.16), had 1.29 times higher number of one-on-one supports (95% CI: 1.03 to 1.61) and had 1.29 times higher number of program visits (95% CI: 1.02 to 1.63). CONCLUSION: Our findings show that this CPNP site serves vulnerable women, with few differences in participation based on maternal characteristics. This evidence can guide service provision and monitoring decisions at this program site. Further research is needed to explore new program delivery models to enhance perinatal services for vulnerable women.

Effect on breastfeeding practices of providing in-home lactation support to vulnerable women through the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program: protocol for a pre/post intervention study.

BACKGROUND: Only one-third of Canadian infants are exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life as recommended. Skilled lactation support in the early postpartum period is one strategy for improving breastfeeding outcomes by building breastfeeding self-efficacy and resolving difficulties. Access to such support is limited among vulnerable women, including those who are new immigrants, low income, under-educated, young or single. The Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) aims to improve birth and breastfeeding outcomes among vulnerable women, but currently lacks a formal framework for providing postpartum lactation support. METHODS: This pre/post intervention study will examine the effect on breastfeeding outcomes of an evidence-based in-home lactation support intervention provided through the CPNP. We will enrol 210 pregnant women who intend to breastfeed and are registered CPNP clients at two sites in Toronto, Canada. During the intervention phase, postpartum home visits by International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) will be pro-actively offered to registered clients of the two sites. Double-electric breast pumps will also be provided to those who meet specific criteria. Infant feeding data will be collected prospectively at seven time points from 2 weeks to 6 months postpartum. Descriptive and regression analyses will be conducted to measure intervention effects. The primary outcome is exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months postpartum. Secondary outcomes include the duration of any and exclusive breastfeeding, timing of introduction of breastmilk substitutes and timing of introduction of solid foods. Breastfeeding self-efficacy will be assessed prenatally and at 2 weeks and 2 months postpartum. Other measures include maternal socio-demographics, infant feeding intentions, maternal depression and anxiety, and household food insecurity. Monitoring data will be used to assess the reach, uptake and fidelity of intervention delivery. DISCUSSION: Increasing access to skilled lactation support through the CPNP may be an effective means of improving breastfeeding practices among vulnerable women and thereby enhancing health and development outcomes for their infants. This pre/post intervention study will contribute evidence on both the effectiveness and feasibility of this approach, in order to guide the development and further testing of appropriate models of integrating lactation support into the CPNP. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT03589963 ) registered July 18, 2018.

Breastfeeding rates are high in a prenatal community support program targeting vulnerable women and offering enhanced postnatal lactation support: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: In Canada, 91% of all mothers initiate breastfeeding, but 40-50% stop by 6 months and only 34% breastfeed exclusively for 6 months, with lower rates among socially and/or economically vulnerable women. The Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) aims to support breastfeeding among vulnerable women, but there is no formal framework or funding for sites to integrate proactive postnatal breastfeeding support. This research aimed to i) describe infant feeding practices among clients of one Toronto CPNP site using charitable funds to offer a lactation support program (in-home lactation consultant visits, breast pumps); ii) determine whether breastfeeding outcomes at 6 months differ based on maternal sociodemographics and food insecurity; and iii) assess utilization of the lactation support program. METHODS: Infant feeding practices were collected prospectively at 2 weeks, 2, 4 and 6 months postpartum via telephone questionnaires (n = 199). Maternal sociodemographics were collected at 2 weeks and food insecurity data at 6 months postpartum. Program monitoring records were used to determine utilization of the lactation support program. RESULTS: Ninety-one percent of participants were born outside of Canada; 55% had incomes below the Low-Income Cut-Off; and 55% reported food insecurity. All participants initiated breastfeeding, 84% continued for 6 months and 16% exclusively breastfed for 6 months. Among breastfed infants, ≥76% received vitamin D supplementation. Approximately 50% of infants were introduced to solids before 6 months. Only high school education or less and food insecurity were associated with lower breastfeeding rates. Overall, 75% of participants received at least one visit with a lactation consultant and 95% of these received a breast pump. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides initial evidence that postnatal lactation support can be delivered within a CPNP site, with high uptake by clients. While all participants initiated breastfeeding and 84% continued for 6 months, adherence to the recommended 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding was low. Further research is needed to better understand the barriers to exclusive breastfeeding and how to support this practice among vulnerable women. Study registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03400605 .

Vulnerable mothers' experiences breastfeeding with an enhanced community lactation support program.

The Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) provides a variety of health and nutrition supports to vulnerable mothers and strongly promotes breastfeeding but does not have a formal framework for postnatal lactation support. Breastfeeding duration and exclusivity rates in Canada fall well below global recommendations, particularly among socially and economically vulnerable women. We aimed to explore CPNP participant experiences with breastfeeding and with a novel community lactation support program in Toronto, Canada that included access to certified lactation consultants and an electric breast pump, if needed. Four semistructured focus groups and 21 individual interviews (n = 46 women) were conducted between September and December 2017. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Study participants reported a strong desire to breastfeed but a lack of preparation for breastfeeding-associated challenges. Three main challenges were identified by study participants: physical (e.g., pain and low milk supply), practical (e.g., cost of breastfeeding support and maternal time pressures), and breastfeeding self-efficacy (e.g., concern about milk supply and conflicting information). Mothers reported that the free lactation support helped to address breastfeeding challenges. In their view, the key element of success with the new program was the in-home visit by the lactation consultant, who was highly skilled and provided care in a non-judgmental manner. They reported this support would have been otherwise unavailable due to cost or travel logistics. This study suggests value in exploring the addition of postnatal lactation support to the well-established national CPNP as a means to improve breastfeeding duration and exclusivity among vulnerable women.

Use of mobile phones for behavior change communication to improve maternal, newborn and child health: a scoping review.

BACKGROUND: Behavior change communication (BCC) to improve health and caring practices is an integral component of efforts to improve maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH). Mobile phones are widely available in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), presenting new opportunities for BCC delivery. There is need for delivery science to determine how best to leverage mobile phone technology for BCC to improve MNCH practices. METHODS: We conducted a scoping review of studies and project reports documenting the feasibility, implementation or effectiveness of using mobile phones for BCC delivery related to MNCH in LMIC. Data were extracted and synthesized from three sources: i) systematic search of three electronic databases (PubMed, MedLine, Scopus); ii) grey literature search, including mHealth databases and websites of organizations implementing mHealth projects; iii) consultation with researchers and programme implementers. Records were screened using pre-determined inclusion criteria and those selected were categorized according to their primary intervention delivery approaches. We then performed a descriptive analysis of the evidence related to both effectiveness and implementation for each delivery approach. RESULTS: The systematic literature search identified 1374 unique records, 64 of which met inclusion criteria. The grey literature search added 32 records for a total of 96 papers in the scoping review. Content analysis of the search results identified four BCC delivery approaches: direct messaging, voice counseling, job aid applications and interactive media. Evidence for the effectiveness of these approaches is growing but remains limited for many MNCH outcomes. The four approaches differ in key implementation elements, including frequency, length and complexity of communication, and potential for personalization. These elements influence resource allocation and are likely to impact effectiveness for BCC targeting complex, habitual MNCH practices. CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review contributes to the evidence-base on the opportunities and limitations of using mobile phones for BCC delivery aiming to improve MNCH practices. The incorporation of mobile phone technology in BCC interventions should be guided by formative research to match both the content and delivery approach to the local context. We recommend five areas for further research, including both effectiveness and implementation studies on specific delivery approaches.

Can fortification be implemented in rural African communities where micronutrient deficiencies are greatest? Lessons from projects in Malawi, Tanzania, and Senegal.

BACKGROUND: Fortifying common foods with micronutrients is an effective strategy for decreasing micronutrient deficiencies at a population level. National fortification initiatives often do not impact remote communities that are unreached by commercially produced food. The feasibility and sustainability of small-scale fortification as a mechanism to overcome this barrier are not well documented. OBJECTIVE: To document the process and assess the feasibility of implementation of community-based fortification of staple grains in rural communities in Malawi, Tanzania, and Senegal. METHODS: In the late 1990s, World Vision piloted community-level fortification within a large-scale, multicountry, integrated nutrition and health program. The exploratory approach focused on developing appropriate community-based methods and processes for flour fortification. An external review in 2012 documented the implementation process, identified barriers and enablers for sustainability and effectiveness, and evaluated the potential for replication and/or scale-up of the intervention. RESULTS: Strong advocacy influenced national policy and legislation for mandatory national-level fortification of staple grains. Piloting community-based fortification led to community acceptance of the consumption of fortified foods; however, lack of realistic funding mechanisms limited sustainability. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the complexity and challenges of community-based fortification, it demonstrates great potential to address unmet needs for micronutrients in vulnerable populations. Further work is needed to determine contextually feasible and sustainable mechanisms for premix supply, quality control, and cost recovery. Incorporating community-based fortification into national fortification frameworks is recommended for countries where a significant proportion of the population may have very limited access to commercially fortified foods.