Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative and exclusive breastfeeding during hospital stay.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding during maternity hospital stay (outcome) and to analyze the association between delivery in a Baby-Friendly Hospital (BFH) and the outcome. The hypothesis is that accreditation to this program improves exclusive breastfeeding during maternity hospital stay. Exclusive breastfeeding is essential in reducing neonatal morbidity and mortality. METHODS: This study is based on secondary data collected by the "Birth in Brazil: National Survey into Labour and Birth", a population-based study, conducted with 21,086 postpartum women, from February 1, 2011, to October 31, 2012, in 266 hospitals from all five Brazilian regions. Face-to-face interviews were conducted mostly within the first 24 hours after birth, regarding individual and gestational characteristics, prenatal care, delivery, newborn's characteristics, and breastfeeding at birth. A theoretical model was created, allocating the exposure variables in three levels based on their proximity to the outcome. This hierarchical conceptual model was applied to perform a multiple logistic regression (with 95%CI and p < 0.05). RESULTS: In this study, 76.0% of the babies were exclusively breastfed from birth until the interview. Babies born in public (AOR = 1.73; 95%CI: 1.10-2.87), mixed (AOR = 2.48; 95%CI: 1.35-4.53) and private (AOR = 5.54; 95%CI: 2.38-12.45) BFHs were more likely to be exclusively breastfed during maternity hospital stay than those born in non-BFHs, as well as those born by vaginal birth (AOR = 2.16; 95%CI: 1.79-2.61), with adolescent mothers (AOR = 1.83; 95%CI: 1.47-2.26) or adults up to 34 years old (AOR =1 .31; 95%CI: 1.13-1.52), primiparous women (AOR = 1.51; 95%CI: 1.34-1.70), and mothers living in the Northern region of Brazil (AOR = 1.99; 95%CI: 1.14-3.49). CONCLUSIONS: The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative promotes exclusive breastfeeding during hospital stay regarding individual and hospital differences.

Breastfeeding in the first hour of life in Brazilian private hospitals participating in a quality-of-care improvement project.

BACKGROUND: The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative's Step 4 recommends: "support mothers to start breastfeeding as soon as possible after birth", thus contributing to the reduction of neonatal mortality. The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of breastfeeding in the first hour of life in private maternity hospitals participating in the "Adequate Childbirth Project", a quality-of-care improvement project, and to analyze determinants of this outcome. METHODS: Secondary analysis of data collected by the cross-sectional evaluative "Healthy Birth Study", conducted in 2017 in 12 maternity hospitals participating in the Adequate Childbirth Project, where 4800 mothers were interviewed, and hospital records were observed. Conditions that prevented breastfeeding at birth, such as maternal HIV-infection and newborns' severe malformations, were excluded. Multiple logistic regression was performed according to a hierarchical theoretical model. RESULTS: The prevalence of breastfeeding in the first hour of life was 58% (CI 95% 56.6-59.5%). Lower maternal education (aOR 0.643; CI 95% 0.528-0.782), lower economic status (aOR 0.687; CI 95% 0.504-0.935), cesarean section delivery (ORa 0.649; CI 95% 0.529-0.797), preterm birth (aOR 0.660; CI 95% 0.460-0.948) and non-rooming-in at birth (aOR 0.669; CI 95% 0.559-0.800) were negatively associated with the outcome. Receiving information during prenatal care about the importance of breastfeeding at birth (aOR 2.585; CI 95% 2.102-3.179), being target of the quality-of-care improvement project (aOR 1.273; CI 95% 1.065-1.522), skin-to-skin contact at birth (aOR 2.127; CI 95% 1.791-2.525) and female newborn (aOR 1.194; CI 95% 1.008-1.415) were factors positively associated with the outcome. CONCLUSIONS: The private maternities participating in the Healthy Birth Study showed a good prevalence of breastfeeding in the first hour of life, according to WHO parameters. Prenatal guidance on breastfeeding at birth, being target of the quality-of-care improvement project and skin-to-skin contact at birth contributed to breastfeeding in the first hour of life.

Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative and exclusive breastfeeding during hospital stay

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding during maternity hospital stay (outcome) and to analyze the association between delivery in a Baby-Friendly Hospital (BFH) and the outcome. The hypothesis is that accreditation to this program improves exclusive breastfeeding during maternity hospital stay. Exclusive breastfeeding is essential in reducing neonatal morbidity and mortality. METHODS This study is based on secondary data collected by the "Birth in Brazil: National Survey into Labour and Birth", a population-based study, conducted with 21,086 postpartum women, from February 1, 2011, to October 31, 2012, in 266 hospitals from all five Brazilian regions. Face-to-face interviews were conducted mostly within the first 24 hours after birth, regarding individual and gestational characteristics, prenatal care, delivery, newborn's characteristics, and breastfeeding at birth. A theoretical model was created, allocating the exposure variables in three levels based on their proximity to the outcome. This hierarchical conceptual model was applied to perform a multiple logistic regression (with 95%CI and p < 0.05). RESULTS In this study, 76.0% of the babies were exclusively breastfed from birth until the interview. Babies born in public (AOR = 1.73; 95%CI: 1.10-2.87), mixed (AOR = 2.48; 95%CI: 1.35-4.53) and private (AOR = 5.54; 95%CI: 2.38-12.45) BFHs were more likely to be exclusively breastfed during maternity hospital stay than those born in non-BFHs, as well as those born by vaginal birth (AOR = 2.16; 95%CI: 1.79-2.61), with adolescent mothers (AOR = 1.83; 95%CI: 1.47-2.26) or adults up to 34 years old (AOR =1 .31; 95%CI: 1.13-1.52), primiparous women (AOR = 1.51; 95%CI: 1.34-1.70), and mothers living in the Northern region of Brazil (AOR = 1.99; 95%CI: 1.14-3.49). CONCLUSIONS The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative promotes exclusive breastfeeding during hospital stay regarding individual and hospital differences.

Violations in the marketing of milks and complementary foods that compete with breastfeeding in Rio de Janeiro City, Brazil / Infrações na comercialização de leites e alimentos de transição que competem com o aleitamento materno na cidade do Rio de Janeiro

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze if milk and complementary foods are being sold under the Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddler's Food, Teats, Pacifiers and Baby Bottles (NBCAL), Law 11265/2006 of breastfeeding protection. Methods: Epidemiological survey that analyzed the marketing practices of pharmacies, supermarkets, and department stores in the Southern region of the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, by direct observation. Results: Among the 349 stores in Rio de Janeiro's South Region, 339 traded milk and complementary foods and, among them, 60.8% were not complying with NBCAL. Infractions to NBCAL were more common for the selling of milk (58.6%) than complementary foods (22.8%). The most recurrent promotion strategy infringing NBCAL was discount pricing without the Ministry of Health disclaimer. Conclusions: Most retail stores infringe NBCAL in the commercialization of milk and complementary foods in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a violation of the right to information that may impact mothers' choice regarding their child's feeding.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar se leites e alimentos de transição estão sendo comercializados de acordo com a Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Mamadeiras, Bicos e Chupetas (NBCAL), Lei n. 11.265/2006, de proteção ao aleitamento materno. Métodos: Inquérito epidemiológico que analisou as práticas de promoção comercial de leites e alimentos de transição em um censo de farmácias, supermercados e lojas de departamento da Zona Sul da cidade do Rio de Janeiro, por meio de observação direta. Resultados: Dos 349 estabelecimentos da Zona Sul, 339 comercializavam leites e alimentos de transição e, destes, 60,8% faziam promoção comercial em desacordo com a NBCAL. Mais da metade dos estabelecimentos (58,6%) tinha leites e 22,8%, alimentos de transição vendidos em inconformidade com a NBCAL. A estratégia de promoção comercial mais praticada foi o desconto no preço sem a frase informativa preconizada pelo Ministério da Saúde. Conclusões: A maior parte dos estabelecimentos comerciais infringe a NBCAL na comercialização de leites e alimentos de transição, configurando uma violação ao direito à informação que pode impactar na escolha das mães quanto à alimentação de seus filhos.

Factors associated with infant formula supplementation in Brazilian hospitals: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Objective To analyze the factors associated with infant formula supplementation in newborns referred to rooming-in in Brazilian hospitals. Method Cross-sectional study with data from 14,531 postpartum women and newborns obtained from the "Birth in Brazil" survey, conducted in 2011-2012. The analysis used a logistic regression model with a hierarchical approach. Results In total, 21.2% newborns received infant formula during hospital stay. After adjustment, the following factors were associated with the use of infant formula: maternal age ≥ 35 years (OR = 1.51; IC95%:1.30-1.75), prenatal care in a private service (OR = 2,22; IC:1.72-2.85)/public and private service (OR = 1.67; IC:1.24-2.23), cesarean delivery (OR = 1.83; IC:1.41-2.38), multiple pregnancy (OR = 3.786; IC:2.02-7.06), non-breastfeeding in the delivery room (OR = 1.780; IC:1.43-2.21), birth in a private hospital (OR = 1.695; IC:1.02-2.79), prematurity (OR = 1.656; IC:1.32-2.06) and extremes of birth weight (< 2.500 g: OR = 2.084; IC: 1.585-2.741/ ≥4,000g: OR = 1.672; IC:1.31-2.11). Teenage age (OR = 0.651; IC:0.55-0.76), low maternal education (OR = 0.579; IC:0.43-0.77), multiparity (OR = 0.588; IC:0.510-0.678), and lower economic class (OR = 0.565; IC:0.41-0.76) significantly reduced the probability of using infant formula. Conclusions Of the associated factors, the authors highlight cesarean delivery and non-breastfeeding in the delivery room, showing that it is necessary to strengthen policies that encourage good practices during childbirth care in order to promote exclusive breastfeeding and protect mothers and newborns from all social classes against the misuse of infant formula.

Harassment of health professionals by the infant food industry at scientific events.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the receipt of sponsorships from breast-milk substitute companies by health professionals in scientific events. METHODS: Multicenter study (Multi-NBCAL) performed from November 2018 to November 2019 in six cities in different Brazilian regions. In 26 public and private hospitals, pediatricians, nutritionists, speech therapists, and a hospital manager were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive analyses were carried out regarding the health professionals' knowledge about the Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras (NBCAL - Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food and Childcare-related Products), companies sponsoring scientific events, and material or financial sponsorships received, according to profession. RESULTS: We interviewed 217 health professionals, mainly pediatricians (48.8%). Slightly more than half of the professionals (54.4%) knew NBCAL, most from Baby-friendly Hospitals. Most health professionals (85.7%) attended scientific events in the last two years, more than half of them (54.3%) sponsored by breast-milk substitute companies, especially Nestlé (85.1%) and Danone (65.3%). These professionals received sponsorships in the events, such as office supplies (49.5%), meals or invitations to parties (29.9%), promotional gifts (21.6%), payment of the conference registration fee (6.2%) or ticket to the conference (2.1%). CONCLUSION: The infant food industries violate NBCAL by harassing health professionals in scientific conferences, offering diverse material and financial sponsorships.

Violations in the marketing of milks and complementary foods that compete with breastfeeding in Rio de Janeiro City, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze if milk and complementary foods are being sold under the Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddler's Food, Teats, Pacifiers and Baby Bottles (NBCAL), Law 11265/2006 of breastfeeding protection. METHODS: Epidemiological survey that analyzed the marketing practices of pharmacies, supermarkets, and department stores in the Southern region of the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, by direct observation. RESULTS: Among the 349 stores in Rio de Janeiro's South Region, 339 traded milk and complementary foods and, among them, 60.8% were not complying with NBCAL. Infractions to NBCAL were more common for the selling of milk (58.6%) than complementary foods (22.8%). The most recurrent promotion strategy infringing NBCAL was discount pricing without the Ministry of Health disclaimer. CONCLUSIONS: Most retail stores infringe NBCAL in the commercialization of milk and complementary foods in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a violation of the right to information that may impact mothers' choice regarding their child's feeding.

Methodology and indicators for NBCAL monitoring in stores and health services: a multicenter study (Multi-NBCAL). / Metodologia e indicadores para monitoramento da NBCAL em estabelecimentos comerciais e serviços de saúde: estudo multicêntrico (Multi-NBCAL).

The Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food, Nipples, Pacifiers and Baby Bottles (NBCAL), in force in Brazil since 1988, is still systematically violated, exposing mothers and family members to illegal marketing of products that compete with breastfeeding. This study aimed to describe a multicenter study methodology and propose standardized indicators for NBCAL monitoring. This is a Multicenter Study for NBCAL Compliance Assessment (Multi-NBCAL) conducted in seven Brazilian cities: Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais State), Florianópolis (Santa Catarina State), Brasília (Federal District), João Pessoa (Paraíba State), and Belém (Pará State). Assessment tools were adapted from NetCode/WHO and IBFAN Brazil (International Baby Food Action Network) to conduct two evaluations: (1) evaluation of NBCAL compliance in stores, and NBCAL knowledge and practices of store managers; (2) evaluation of the interaction between the baby food industry and health professionals and post-partum mothers in maternity hospitals. Five indicators were developed to assess NBCAL compliance in stores; seven indicators to assess the knowledge and practices of store managers; five indicators to assess the provision of incentives to maternity hospitals, health professionals, and mothers by sectors; and five indicators to assess NBCAL knowledge and practices of health professionals. The NBCAL assessment methodology with the proposal of standardized indicators allows comparability of studies about this theme. Using these indicators in periodic national or regional investigation can help monitor the level of NBCAL implementation in Brazil.

A Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras (NBCAL), vigente no Brasil desde 1988, ainda é sistematicamente infringida, expondo mães e familiares ao marketing ilegal de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno. O objetivo foi descrever metodologia de estudo multicêntrico e propor indicadores padronizados para monitoramento da NBCAL. Estudo Multicêntrico para Monitoramento da NBCAL (Multi-NBCAL) conduzido em sete cidades brasileiras: Rio de Janeiro; São Paulo; Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais); Florianópolis (Santa Catarina); Brasília (Distrito Federal); João Pessoa (Paraíba) e Belém (Pará). Instrumentos de avaliação foram adaptados do NetCode/WHO e da IBFAN Brasil (Rede Internacional em Defesa do Direito de Amamentar) para condução de dois inquéritos: (1) avaliação do cumprimento da NBCAL em estabelecimentos comerciais e das práticas e conhecimento dos seus gerentes sobre a NBCAL; (2) avaliação em maternidades da interação da indústria de alimentos infantis com profissionais de saúde e mães. Foram elaborados cinco indicadores para avaliação do cumprimento da NBCAL em estabelecimentos comerciais; sete indicadores para avaliar conhecimentos e práticas dos seus responsáveis; cinco indicadores para avaliar a oferta de incentivos a maternidades, profissionais de saúde e mães pelas indústrias e cinco indicadores para avaliar conhecimento e práticas de profissionais de saúde quanto à NBCAL. A metodologia de avaliação da NBCAL, com a proposta de indicadores padronizados, permite a comparabilidade de estudos sobre o tema. A utilização desses indicadores em inquéritos periódicos, nacionais ou regionais, pode contribuir para monitorar o grau de implementação da NBCAL no Brasil.

La Norma Brasileña de Comercialización de Alimentos para Lactantes y Niños en la Primera Infancia, Tetillas, Chupetes y Biberones (NBCAL), vigente en Brasil desde 1988, todavía es sistemáticamente infringida, exponiendo a madres y familiares al marketing ilegal de productos que compiten con la lactancia materna. El objetivo fue describir la metodología de estudio multicéntrico y proponer indicadores estandarizados para el monitoreo de la NBCAL. Estudio Multicéntrico para Monitoreo de la NBCAL (Multi-NBCAL) llevado a cabo en siete (7) ciudades brasileñas: Río de Janeiro; São Paulo; Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais); Florianópolis (Santa Catarina); Brasilia (Distrito Federal); João Pessoa (Paraíba) y Belém (Pará). Se adaptaron instrumentos de evaluación del NetCode/OMS y de la IBFAN Brasil (Red Internacional de Acción por la Alimentación Infantil)para la realización de dos encuestas: (1) evaluación del cumplimiento de la NBCAL en establecimientos comerciales y de las prácticas y conocimiento de sus gerentes sobre la NBCAL; (2) evaluación en maternidades de la interacción de la industria de alimentos infantiles con profesionales de salud y madres. Se elaboraron cinco indicadores para la evaluación del cumplimiento de la NBCAL en establecimientos comerciales; siete indicadores para evaluar conocimientos y prácticas de sus responsables; cinco indicadores para evaluar la oferta de incentivos a maternidades, profesionales de salud y madres por las industrias y cinco indicadores para evaluar el conocimiento y prácticas de profesionales de salud, respecto a la NBCAL. La metodología de evaluación de la NBCAL, con la propuesta de indicadores estandarizados, permite la comparabilidad de estudios sobre el tema. La utilización de estos indicadores en encuestas periódicas, nacionales o regionales, puede contribuir a monitorear el grado de implementación de la NBCAL en Brasil.

Factors associated with infant formula supplementation in Brazilian hospitals: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the factors associated with infant formula supplementation in newborns referred to rooming-in in Brazilian hospitals. METHOD: Cross-sectional study with data from 14,531 postpartum women and newborns obtained from the "Birth in Brazil" survey, conducted in 2011-2012. The analysis used a logistic regression model with a hierarchical approach. RESULTS: In total, 21.2% newborns received infant formula during hospital stay. After adjustment, the following factors were associated with the use of infant formula: maternal age ≥ 35 years (OR = 1.51; IC95%:1.30-1.75), prenatal care in a private service (OR = 2,22; IC:1.72-2.85)/public and private service (OR = 1.67; IC:1.24-2.23), cesarean delivery (OR = 1.83; IC:1.41-2.38), multiple pregnancy (OR = 3.786; IC:2.02-7.06), non-breastfeeding in the delivery room (OR = 1.780; IC:1.43-2.21), birth in a private hospital (OR = 1.695; IC:1.02-2.79), prematurity (OR = 1.656; IC:1.32-2.06) and extremes of birth weight (< 2.500 g: OR = 2.084; IC: 1.585-2.741/ ≥4,000g: OR = 1.672; IC:1.31-2.11). Teenage age (OR = 0.651; IC:0.55-0.76), low maternal education (OR = 0.579; IC:0.43-0.77), multiparity (OR = 0.588; IC:0.510-0.678), and lower economic class (OR = 0.565; IC:0.41-0.76) significantly reduced the probability of using infant formula. CONCLUSIONS: Of the associated factors, the authors highlight cesarean delivery and non-breastfeeding in the delivery room, showing that it is necessary to strengthen policies that encourage good practices during childbirth care in order to promote exclusive breastfeeding and protect mothers and newborns from all social classes against the misuse of infant formula.

Ovicidal effect of essential oils of Lippia alba, Lippia sidoides and Lippia gracilis on the acanthocephalan Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae (Eoacanthocephala: Neoechinorhynchidae).

Acanthocephalosis in tambaqui Colossoma macropomum culture is a limiting factor for the production of the species, being the most recurrent, which makes it necessary to develop strategies to control parasitosis even in the early stages of parasite development. This study aimed to elucidate the morphological characteristics of eggs of the acanthocephalan Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae and the ovicidal effect of the essential oils of Lippia alba, Lippia sidoides, and Lippia gracilis. The parasites were collected from hosts naturally infected with N. buttnerae, and the eggs obtained from the female 'parasites' abdominal cavity were added to 12-well plates containing the essential oils at different dilutions. After the eggs (N = 300) were separated and measured (length and width) with the aid of an optical microscope coupled to a digital program, the viability of the treated eggs was monitored 24 h after treatments, L. gracilis essential oil was 100% effective at the highest concentration, whereas L. sidoides essential oil showed over 50% efficacy at 2 mg/ml, reaching 100% efficacy at all higher concentrations. Lippia. alba essential oil did not show satisfactory efficacy in preventing N. buttnerae egg hatching.

Harassment of health professionals by the infant food industry at scientific events / Assédio da indústria de alimentos infantis a profissionais de saúde em eventos científicos

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To analyze the receipt of sponsorships from breast-milk substitute companies by health professionals in scientific events. METHODS Multicenter study (Multi-NBCAL) performed from November 2018 to November 2019 in six cities in different Brazilian regions. In 26 public and private hospitals, pediatricians, nutritionists, speech therapists, and a hospital manager were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive analyses were carried out regarding the health professionals' knowledge about the Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras (NBCAL - Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food and Childcare-related Products), companies sponsoring scientific events, and material or financial sponsorships received, according to profession. RESULTS We interviewed 217 health professionals, mainly pediatricians (48.8%). Slightly more than half of the professionals (54.4%) knew NBCAL, most from Baby-friendly Hospitals. Most health professionals (85.7%) attended scientific events in the last two years, more than half of them (54.3%) sponsored by breast-milk substitute companies, especially Nestlé (85.1%) and Danone (65.3%). These professionals received sponsorships in the events, such as office supplies (49.5%), meals or invitations to parties (29.9%), promotional gifts (21.6%), payment of the conference registration fee (6.2%) or ticket to the conference (2.1%). CONCLUSION The infant food industries violate NBCAL by harassing health professionals in scientific conferences, offering diverse material and financial sponsorships.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Analisar o recebimento de patrocínios da indústria de substitutos do leite materno por profissionais de saúde em eventos científicos. MÉTODOS Inquérito multicêntrico (Multi-NBCAL) conduzido entre novembro de 2018 e novembro de 2019 em seis cidades de diferentes regiões brasileiras. Em 26 hospitais públicos e privados foram entrevistados pediatras, nutricionistas, fonoaudiólogos e um membro da chefia, mediante questionário estruturado. Foram realizadas análises descritivas do conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde sobre a Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras (NBCAL), das empresas patrocinadoras de eventos científicos e dos patrocínios financeiros ou materiais recebidos, conforme a categoria profissional. RESULTADOS Foram entrevistados 217 profissionais de saúde, principalmente pediatras (48,8%). Pouco mais da metade dos profissionais (54,4%) afirmaram conhecer a NBCAL, principalmente em Hospitais Amigos da Criança. A maior parte (85,7%) dos profissionais de saúde havia participado de congressos científicos nos últimos dois anos, mais da metade, 54,3%, deles apoiados pela indústria de substitutos do leite materno, em especial pela Nestlé (85,1%) e Danone (65,3%). Patrocínios foram recebidos por esses profissionais nos eventos, como materiais de escritório (49,5%), refeições ou convites para festas (29,9%), brindes (21,6%), pagamento de inscrição (6,2%) ou de passagem para o congresso (2,1%). CONCLUSÃO As indústrias de alimentos infantis infringem a NBCAL ao assediar profissionais de saúde em congressos científicos, oferecendo patrocínios materiais e financeiros diversos.

Digestive tube of an herbivorous fish (Rhytiodus microlepis) from the Amazonian floodplain lakes: A morphological and histochemical study.

This study describes the morphology and histochemistry of the digestive tube of the herbivorous fish Rhytiodus microlepis, which is commonly found in the Amazonian floodplain lakes, Brazil. Thirty-eight fish were used in this study. The digestive tube was measured and dissected for anatomical description, and stained with (i) haematoxylin and eosin, for histological analyses; (ii) periodic acid-Schiff, for detected neutral mucins; and (iii) Alcian Blue (AB) pH 1.0 and 2.5 for acid and sulphated acid mucins. The oesophagus, with its secretory cells and taste buds, is adapted for lubrication of vegetable matter, resistance to friction and reception of stimuli. The stomach is U-shaped and rich in gastric glands, particularly in cardiac and fundic regions, which are adapted to receive large amounts of food, and promotes the digestion. The intestine comprises more than 70% of the digestive tube. All portions of the intestine, except the rectum, have the same pattern of mucosal folds, and the goblet cells reacted positively to all histochemical methods (PAS, AB 1.0 and 2.5), while rodlet cells reacted only to periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining. Neutral mucins and sulphated acid mucins predominated in the anterior portion of the intestine and a high concentration of carboxylated acid mucosubstances were present in the other portions. The rectum showed a strong reaction to all histochemical methods. The muscular layer of the intestine consists of three layers, which showed features presumably related to the rigid nature of the food. A simple squamous epithelium constitutes the serous layer over the entire length of the tube.

Sustainability of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: to assess the sustainability of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative by analyzing compliance with the Ten Steps in accredited units; and association with maternal satisfaction and exclusive breastfeeding. METHODS: a cross-sectional study conducted in 2016. An assessment of compliance, conducted by interviews with health professionals, pregnant women, and mothers. An association between compliance and satisfaction, analyzed by Spearman>s correlation test; and association between contextual/individual characteristics and exclusive breastfeeding, by the multilevel Poisson regression. RESULTS: compliance was 5.4-10 points and satisfaction was 36.8%-100%. Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was 56.7%. There was a correlation between compliance and satisfaction. Higher education, prenatal orientation, hospital discharge on exclusive breastfeeding, attendance in mixed units, and female gender of the child were associated with higher prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding; on the other hand, increasing age and pacifier use were associated with lower prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: the Initiative proved to be sustainable; compliance with the Ten Steps was high and was reflected in maternal satisfaction.

[Impact assessment of an educational intervention in pharmacies that use commercial promotion of products competing with maternal breastfeeding]. / Avaliação do impacto de intervenção educativa em farmácias com promoção comercial de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno.

The Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food, Nipples, Pacifiers, and Baby Bottles (Federal Law n. 11,265/2006) aims to control the abusive marketing of products that compete with breastfeeding. The objective was to assess the impact of an educational intervention on compliance with this law by pharmacies. A randomized intervention study was conducted in 155 pharmacies that were infringing the law in the Southern Zone of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The pharmacies' commercial practices were assessed before and after the intervention with the pharmacist and manager, compared to the control group. The interval between the intervention and the second assessment was one month. McNemar test was used to measure changes in the number of pharmacies infringing the law before and after the intervention. Wilcoxon test was used to compare variation in the number of violations in each group. A month after the intervention, there was a 16.1% reduction (n = 25) in the number of pharmacies committing violations. There was a decrease from 18.7% to 12.9% in products whose commercial promotion is banned by the law (p = 0.093) and from 92.9% to 80.5% in milk products (p = 0.001), but among processed complementary food there was an increase from 28.5% to 42.3% of pharmacies with illegal promotions (p = 0.006). The intervention group with the pharmacists showed a statistically significant reduction in violations related to discount prices (p = 0.022) and special displays (p = 0.002). The educational intervention reduced the number of pharmacies that infringed the law, mainly when the intervention involved the pharmacist.

A Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras (Lei Federal nº 11.265/2006) visa controlar o marketing abusivo de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno. O objetivo foi avaliar o impacto de uma intervenção educativa sobre o cumprimento da Lei em farmácias. Pesquisa de intervenção randomizada conduzida em 155 farmácias que infringiam a Lei na Zona Sul do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. A prática comercial das farmácias foi avaliada antes e depois da intervenção com o farmacêutico e com o gerente, comparados ao grupo controle. O intervalo entre a intervenção e a segunda avaliação foi de um mês. Para aferir as mudanças no quantitativo de farmácias com infração à Lei, antes e depois da intervenção, foi utilizado o teste de McNemar. O teste de Wilcoxon foi usado para comparar a variação no número de infrações em cada grupo de alocação. Um mês após a intervenção houve redução de 16,1% (n = 25) no total de farmácias com infração. Houve redução de 18,7% para 12,9% em produtos cuja promoção comercial é proibida (p = 0,093) e de 92,9% para 80,5% nos produtos lácteos (p = 0,001), mas entre alimentos de transição houve aumento de 28,5% para 42,3% de farmácias com promoção ilegal (p = 0,006). O grupo intervenção com farmacêutico apresentou redução estatisticamente significativa nas infrações relacionadas a descontos de preço (p = 0,022) e a exposições especiais (p = 0,002). A intervenção educativa reduziu a quantidade de farmácias que infringia essa Lei, principalmente quando esta intervenção foi realizada com o farmacêutico.

La Norma Brasileña de Comercialización de Alimentos para Lactantes y Niños de la Primera Infancia, Tetillas, Chupetes y Biberones (Ley Federal nº 11.265/2006) tiene como finalidad controlar el márketing abusivo de productos que compiten con la lactancia materna. El objetivo fue evaluar el impacto de una intervención educativa sobre el cumplimiento de la ley en farmacias. Se realizó una investigación de intervención aleatoria, llevada a cabo en 155 farmacias que infringían la ley en la zona sur de Río de Janeiro, Brasil. La práctica comercial de las farmacias fue evaluada antes y después de la intervención con el farmacéutico y con el gerente, comparadas con el grupo de control. El intervalo entre la intervención y la segunda evaluación fue de un mes. Para evaluar los cambios en lo cuantitativo de farmacias con infracción a la ley, antes y después de la intervención, se utilizó el test de McNemar. El test de Wilcoxon se utilizó para comparar la variación en el número de infracciones en cada grupo de asignación. Tras un mes de la intervención hubo una reducción de un 16,1% (n = 25) en el total de farmacias con infracción. Hubo una reducción desde un 18,7% a un 12,9% en productos cuya promoción comercial está prohibida (p = 0,093) y de un 92,9% a un 80,5% en productos lácteos (p = 0,001). Sin embargo, entre alimentos de transición hubo un aumento de un 28,5% a un 42,3% de farmacias con promoción ilegal (p = 0,006). El grupo de intervención con el farmacéutico presentó una reducción estadísticamente significativa en las infracciones relacionadas con descuentos de precio (p = 0,022) y respecto a exposiciones especiales (p = 0,002). La intervención educativa redujo la cantidad de farmacias que infringía esta ley, principalmente cuando la intervención educativa se realizó con el farmacéutico.

Breastmilk Substitutes Marketing Violations and Associated Factors in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Aiming to protect breastfeeding, the World Health Organization released the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes in 1981, which was adopted by the vast majority of the 118 member countries, including Brazil. The Brazilian Code regulates the marketing of infant formulas, baby bottles, teats, pacifiers, milk, and processed complementary food. RESEARCH AIMS: (1) To determine if retail stores had violated the Brazilian Code and (2) to analyze factors associated with these violations. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included all drugstores, supermarkets, and department stores in the Southern Zone of Rio de Janeiro City, Brazil. Trained health professionals observed retail stores for marketed products and violations of the Brazilian Code and then interviewed their managers. Factors associated with the retail stores violating the Brazilian Code (outcome) were analyzed, employing a logistic regression model with 95% Confidence Interval. RESULTS: Of the retail stores (N = 349) evaluated, 62.8% violated the Brazilian Code, ranging from 1 to 37 violations per retail store. The most common promotion strategies were price discounts and special displays. Retail stores being part of a chain store (aOR = 4.59) and their manager receiving visits from industry business representatives (aOR = 2.14) were associated with the presence of violations. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of Brazilian Code violations was high, especially in chain stores. The association between regular visits by industry representatives and violations suggests an indirect influence of manufacturers on the promotion of human milk substitutes. We recommend strengthening compliance with the Brazilian Code through calling on governmental surveillance agencies and civil society mobilization.

Avaliação do impacto de intervenção educativa em farmácias com promoção comercial de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno / Impact assessment of an educational intervention in pharmacies that use commercial promotion of products competing with maternal breastfeeding / Evaluación del impacto de una intervención educativa en farmacias con promoción comercial de productos que compiten con la lactancia materna

A Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras (Lei Federal nº 11.265/2006) visa controlar o marketing abusivo de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno. O objetivo foi avaliar o impacto de uma intervenção educativa sobre o cumprimento da Lei em farmácias. Pesquisa de intervenção randomizada conduzida em 155 farmácias que infringiam a Lei na Zona Sul do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. A prática comercial das farmácias foi avaliada antes e depois da intervenção com o farmacêutico e com o gerente, comparados ao grupo controle. O intervalo entre a intervenção e a segunda avaliação foi de um mês. Para aferir as mudanças no quantitativo de farmácias com infração à Lei, antes e depois da intervenção, foi utilizado o teste de McNemar. O teste de Wilcoxon foi usado para comparar a variação no número de infrações em cada grupo de alocação. Um mês após a intervenção houve redução de 16,1% (n = 25) no total de farmácias com infração. Houve redução de 18,7% para 12,9% em produtos cuja promoção comercial é proibida (p = 0,093) e de 92,9% para 80,5% nos produtos lácteos (p = 0,001), mas entre alimentos de transição houve aumento de 28,5% para 42,3% de farmácias com promoção ilegal (p = 0,006). O grupo intervenção com farmacêutico apresentou redução estatisticamente significativa nas infrações relacionadas a descontos de preço (p = 0,022) e a exposições especiais (p = 0,002). A intervenção educativa reduziu a quantidade de farmácias que infringia essa Lei, principalmente quando esta intervenção foi realizada com o farmacêutico.

The Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food, Nipples, Pacifiers, and Baby Bottles (Federal Law n. 11,265/2006) aims to control the abusive marketing of products that compete with breastfeeding. The objective was to assess the impact of an educational intervention on compliance with this law by pharmacies. A randomized intervention study was conducted in 155 pharmacies that were infringing the law in the Southern Zone of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The pharmacies' commercial practices were assessed before and after the intervention with the pharmacist and manager, compared to the control group. The interval between the intervention and the second assessment was one month. McNemar test was used to measure changes in the number of pharmacies infringing the law before and after the intervention. Wilcoxon test was used to compare variation in the number of violations in each group. A month after the intervention, there was a 16.1% reduction (n = 25) in the number of pharmacies committing violations. There was a decrease from 18.7% to 12.9% in products whose commercial promotion is banned by the law (p = 0.093) and from 92.9% to 80.5% in milk products (p = 0.001), but among processed complementary food there was an increase from 28.5% to 42.3% of pharmacies with illegal promotions (p = 0.006). The intervention group with the pharmacists showed a statistically significant reduction in violations related to discount prices (p = 0.022) and special displays (p = 0.002). The educational intervention reduced the number of pharmacies that infringed the law, mainly when the intervention involved the pharmacist.

La Norma Brasileña de Comercialización de Alimentos para Lactantes y Niños de la Primera Infancia, Tetillas, Chupetes y Biberones (Ley Federal nº 11.265/2006) tiene como finalidad controlar el márketing abusivo de productos que compiten con la lactancia materna. El objetivo fue evaluar el impacto de una intervención educativa sobre el cumplimiento de la ley en farmacias. Se realizó una investigación de intervención aleatoria, llevada a cabo en 155 farmacias que infringían la ley en la zona sur de Río de Janeiro, Brasil. La práctica comercial de las farmacias fue evaluada antes y después de la intervención con el farmacéutico y con el gerente, comparadas con el grupo de control. El intervalo entre la intervención y la segunda evaluación fue de un mes. Para evaluar los cambios en lo cuantitativo de farmacias con infracción a la ley, antes y después de la intervención, se utilizó el test de McNemar. El test de Wilcoxon se utilizó para comparar la variación en el número de infracciones en cada grupo de asignación. Tras un mes de la intervención hubo una reducción de un 16,1% (n = 25) en el total de farmacias con infracción. Hubo una reducción desde un 18,7% a un 12,9% en productos cuya promoción comercial está prohibida (p = 0,093) y de un 92,9% a un 80,5% en productos lácteos (p = 0,001). Sin embargo, entre alimentos de transición hubo un aumento de un 28,5% a un 42,3% de farmacias con promoción ilegal (p = 0,006). El grupo de intervención con el farmacéutico presentó una reducción estadísticamente significativa en las infracciones relacionadas con descuentos de precio (p = 0,022) y respecto a exposiciones especiales (p = 0,002). La intervención educativa redujo la cantidad de farmacias que infringía esta ley, principalmente cuando la intervención educativa se realizó con el farmacéutico.

Sustainability of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative: a cross-sectional study / Sostenibilidad de la Iniciativa Unidad Primaria Amiga de la Lactancia Materna: un estudio transversal / Sustentabilidade da Iniciativa "Unidade Básica Amiga da Amamentação": um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objectives: to assess the sustainability of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative by analyzing compliance with the Ten Steps in accredited units; and association with maternal satisfaction and exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: a cross-sectional study conducted in 2016. An assessment of compliance, conducted by interviews with health professionals, pregnant women, and mothers. An association between compliance and satisfaction, analyzed by Spearman›s correlation test; and association between contextual/individual characteristics and exclusive breastfeeding, by the multilevel Poisson regression. Results: compliance was 5.4-10 points and satisfaction was 36.8%-100%. Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was 56.7%. There was a correlation between compliance and satisfaction. Higher education, prenatal orientation, hospital discharge on exclusive breastfeeding, attendance in mixed units, and female gender of the child were associated with higher prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding; on the other hand, increasing age and pacifier use were associated with lower prevalence. Conclusions: the Initiative proved to be sustainable; compliance with the Ten Steps was high and was reflected in maternal satisfaction.

RESUMEN Objetivos: evaluar sostenibilidad de la Iniciativa Unidad Primaria Amiga de la Lactancia Materna por análisis del cumplimiento de Diez Pasos en unidades acreditadas; y asociación con satisfacción materna y lactancia materna exclusiva. Métodos: estudio transversal conducido en 2016. Evaluación del cumplimiento, realizada por entrevistas con profesionales de salud, embarazadas y madres. Asociación entre cumplimiento y satisfacción, analizada por test de correlación de Spearman; y asociación entre características contextuales/individuales y lactancia materna exclusiva, por regresión de Poisson multinivel. Resultados: el cumplimiento fue de 5,4-10 puntos y satisfacción de 36,8%-100%. Prevalencia de lactancia materna exclusiva fue 56,7%. Hubo correlación entre cumplimiento y satisfacción. Mayor escolaridad, orientación prenatal, alta hospitalaria en lactancia materna exclusiva, asistencia en unidades mistas y sexo femenino del niño se asociaron a mayores prevalencias de lactancia materna exclusiva; ya edad creciente y uso de chupete a menores prevalencias. Conclusiones: la iniciativa se mostró sustentable; el cumplimiento de los Diez Pasos elevado y se reflejó en la satisfacción materna.

RESUMO Objetivos: avaliar a sustentabilidade da Iniciativa Unidade Básica Amiga da Amamentação pela análise do cumprimento de Dez Passos nas unidades credenciadas; e associação com satisfação materna e aleitamento materno exclusivo. Métodos: estudo transversal conduzido em 2016. Avaliação do cumprimento, realizada por entrevistas com profissionais de saúde, gestantes e mães. Associação entre cumprimento e satisfação, analisada pelo teste de correlação de Spearman; e associação entre características contextuais/individuais e aleitamento materno exclusivo, por regressão de Poisson multinível. Resultados: o cumprimento foi de 5,4-10 pontos e satisfação de 36,8%-100%. Prevalência de aleitamento materno exclusivo foi 56,7%. Houve correlação entre cumprimento e satisfação. Maior escolaridade, orientação prénatal, alta hospitalar em amamentação exclusiva, assistência em unidades mistas e sexo feminino da criança se associaram a maiores prevalências de aleitamento materno exclusivo; já idade crescente e uso de chupeta, a menores prevalências. Conclusões: A Iniciativa mostrou-se sustentável; o cumprimento dos Dez Passos foi elevado e se refletiu na satisfação materna.

Sustainability of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative: a cross-sectional study / Sostenibilidad de la Iniciativa Unidad Primaria Amiga de la Lactancia Materna: un estudio transversal / Sustentabilidade da Iniciativa "Unidade Básica Amiga da Amamentação": um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objectives: to assess the sustainability of the Breastfeeding-Friendly Primary Care Initiative by analyzing compliance with the Ten Steps in accredited units; and association with maternal satisfaction and exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: a cross-sectional study conducted in 2016. An assessment of compliance, conducted by interviews with health professionals, pregnant women, and mothers. An association between compliance and satisfaction, analyzed by Spearman›s correlation test; and association between contextual/individual characteristics and exclusive breastfeeding, by the multilevel Poisson regression. Results: compliance was 5.4-10 points and satisfaction was 36.8%-100%. Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was 56.7%. There was a correlation between compliance and satisfaction. Higher education, prenatal orientation, hospital discharge on exclusive breastfeeding, attendance in mixed units, and female gender of the child were associated with higher prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding; on the other hand, increasing age and pacifier use were associated with lower prevalence. Conclusions: the Initiative proved to be sustainable; compliance with the Ten Steps was high and was reflected in maternal satisfaction.

RESUMEN Objetivos: evaluar sostenibilidad de la Iniciativa Unidad Primaria Amiga de la Lactancia Materna por análisis del cumplimiento de Diez Pasos en unidades acreditadas; y asociación con satisfacción materna y lactancia materna exclusiva. Métodos: estudio transversal conducido en 2016. Evaluación del cumplimiento, realizada por entrevistas con profesionales de salud, embarazadas y madres. Asociación entre cumplimiento y satisfacción, analizada por test de correlación de Spearman; y asociación entre características contextuales/individuales y lactancia materna exclusiva, por regresión de Poisson multinivel. Resultados: el cumplimiento fue de 5,4-10 puntos y satisfacción de 36,8%-100%. Prevalencia de lactancia materna exclusiva fue 56,7%. Hubo correlación entre cumplimiento y satisfacción. Mayor escolaridad, orientación prenatal, alta hospitalaria en lactancia materna exclusiva, asistencia en unidades mistas y sexo femenino del niño se asociaron a mayores prevalencias de lactancia materna exclusiva; ya edad creciente y uso de chupete a menores prevalencias. Conclusiones: la iniciativa se mostró sustentable; el cumplimiento de los Diez Pasos elevado y se reflejó en la satisfacción materna.

RESUMO Objetivos: avaliar a sustentabilidade da Iniciativa Unidade Básica Amiga da Amamentação pela análise do cumprimento de Dez Passos nas unidades credenciadas; e associação com satisfação materna e aleitamento materno exclusivo. Métodos: estudo transversal conduzido em 2016. Avaliação do cumprimento, realizada por entrevistas com profissionais de saúde, gestantes e mães. Associação entre cumprimento e satisfação, analisada pelo teste de correlação de Spearman; e associação entre características contextuais/individuais e aleitamento materno exclusivo, por regressão de Poisson multinível. Resultados: o cumprimento foi de 5,4-10 pontos e satisfação de 36,8%-100%. Prevalência de aleitamento materno exclusivo foi 56,7%. Houve correlação entre cumprimento e satisfação. Maior escolaridade, orientação prénatal, alta hospitalar em amamentação exclusiva, assistência em unidades mistas e sexo feminino da criança se associaram a maiores prevalências de aleitamento materno exclusivo; já idade crescente e uso de chupeta, a menores prevalências. Conclusões: A Iniciativa mostrou-se sustentável; o cumprimento dos Dez Passos foi elevado e se refletiu na satisfação materna.

Metodologia e indicadores para monitoramento da NBCAL em estabelecimentos comerciais e serviços de saúde: estudo multicêntrico (Multi-NBCAL) / Metodología e indicadores para el monitoreo de la NBCAL en establecimientos comerciales y servicios de salud: estudio multicéntrico (Multi-NBCAL) / Methodology and indicators for NBCAL monitoring in stores and health services: a multicenter study (Multi-NBCAL)

A Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras (NBCAL), vigente no Brasil desde 1988, ainda é sistematicamente infringida, expondo mães e familiares ao marketing ilegal de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno. O objetivo foi descrever metodologia de estudo multicêntrico e propor indicadores padronizados para monitoramento da NBCAL. Estudo Multicêntrico para Monitoramento da NBCAL (Multi-NBCAL) conduzido em sete cidades brasileiras: Rio de Janeiro; São Paulo; Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais); Florianópolis (Santa Catarina); Brasília (Distrito Federal); João Pessoa (Paraíba) e Belém (Pará). Instrumentos de avaliação foram adaptados do NetCode/WHO e da IBFAN Brasil (Rede Internacional em Defesa do Direito de Amamentar) para condução de dois inquéritos: (1) avaliação do cumprimento da NBCAL em estabelecimentos comerciais e das práticas e conhecimento dos seus gerentes sobre a NBCAL; (2) avaliação em maternidades da interação da indústria de alimentos infantis com profissionais de saúde e mães. Foram elaborados cinco indicadores para avaliação do cumprimento da NBCAL em estabelecimentos comerciais; sete indicadores para avaliar conhecimentos e práticas dos seus responsáveis; cinco indicadores para avaliar a oferta de incentivos a maternidades, profissionais de saúde e mães pelas indústrias e cinco indicadores para avaliar conhecimento e práticas de profissionais de saúde quanto à NBCAL. A metodologia de avaliação da NBCAL, com a proposta de indicadores padronizados, permite a comparabilidade de estudos sobre o tema. A utilização desses indicadores em inquéritos periódicos, nacionais ou regionais, pode contribuir para monitorar o grau de implementação da NBCAL no Brasil.

La Norma Brasileña de Comercialización de Alimentos para Lactantes y Niños en la Primera Infancia, Tetillas, Chupetes y Biberones (NBCAL), vigente en Brasil desde 1988, todavía es sistemáticamente infringida, exponiendo a madres y familiares al marketing ilegal de productos que compiten con la lactancia materna. El objetivo fue describir la metodología de estudio multicéntrico y proponer indicadores estandarizados para el monitoreo de la NBCAL. Estudio Multicéntrico para Monitoreo de la NBCAL (Multi-NBCAL) llevado a cabo en siete (7) ciudades brasileñas: Río de Janeiro; São Paulo; Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais); Florianópolis (Santa Catarina); Brasilia (Distrito Federal); João Pessoa (Paraíba) y Belém (Pará). Se adaptaron instrumentos de evaluación del NetCode/OMS y de la IBFAN Brasil (Red Internacional de Acción por la Alimentación Infantil)para la realización de dos encuestas: (1) evaluación del cumplimiento de la NBCAL en establecimientos comerciales y de las prácticas y conocimiento de sus gerentes sobre la NBCAL; (2) evaluación en maternidades de la interacción de la industria de alimentos infantiles con profesionales de salud y madres. Se elaboraron cinco indicadores para la evaluación del cumplimiento de la NBCAL en establecimientos comerciales; siete indicadores para evaluar conocimientos y prácticas de sus responsables; cinco indicadores para evaluar la oferta de incentivos a maternidades, profesionales de salud y madres por las industrias y cinco indicadores para evaluar el conocimiento y prácticas de profesionales de salud, respecto a la NBCAL. La metodología de evaluación de la NBCAL, con la propuesta de indicadores estandarizados, permite la comparabilidad de estudios sobre el tema. La utilización de estos indicadores en encuestas periódicas, nacionales o regionales, puede contribuir a monitorear el grado de implementación de la NBCAL en Brasil.

The Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food, Nipples, Pacifiers and Baby Bottles (NBCAL), in force in Brazil since 1988, is still systematically violated, exposing mothers and family members to illegal marketing of products that compete with breastfeeding. This study aimed to describe a multicenter study methodology and propose standardized indicators for NBCAL monitoring. This is a Multicenter Study for NBCAL Compliance Assessment (Multi-NBCAL) conducted in seven Brazilian cities: Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais State), Florianópolis (Santa Catarina State), Brasília (Federal District), João Pessoa (Paraíba State), and Belém (Pará State). Assessment tools were adapted from NetCode/WHO and IBFAN Brazil (International Baby Food Action Network) to conduct two evaluations: (1) evaluation of NBCAL compliance in stores, and NBCAL knowledge and practices of store managers; (2) evaluation of the interaction between the baby food industry and health professionals and post-partum mothers in maternity hospitals. Five indicators were developed to assess NBCAL compliance in stores; seven indicators to assess the knowledge and practices of store managers; five indicators to assess the provision of incentives to maternity hospitals, health professionals, and mothers by sectors; and five indicators to assess NBCAL knowledge and practices of health professionals. The NBCAL assessment methodology with the proposal of standardized indicators allows comparability of studies about this theme. Using these indicators in periodic national or regional investigation can help monitor the level of NBCAL implementation in Brazil.