Introduction
The promotion and use of breastmilk substitutes have become a significant public health concern in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Recent research conducted by Helen Keller International highlights the pervasive promotion of these substitutes and their high usage among mothers for infant and young child feeding. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing the outcomes of this research or encouraging further investigation.
Understanding the Research Findings
The study assessed mothers' exposure to commercial promotions for breastmilk substitutes and their usage patterns through a cross-sectional survey among 294 mothers of children under 24 months. The findings were alarming:
- 86% of mothers reported observing commercial promotions for breastmilk substitutes.
- 19% observed infant and young child food product brands/logos on health facility equipment.
- 18.4% received recommendations from health professionals to use a breastmilk substitute.
- Consumption of breastmilk substitutes was high, with 43.1% of children 0–5 months and 29.3% of children 6–23 months consuming these products.
These statistics highlight a critical need to improve breastfeeding practices among Phnom Penh mothers. Only 36.1% of infants 0–5 months were exclusively breastfed, and a mere 12.5% of children 20–23 months were still breastfed.
Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners can play a pivotal role in reversing these trends by implementing the following strategies:
- Educate Mothers: Provide comprehensive education on the benefits of exclusive and continued breastfeeding. Highlight the nutritional, immunological, and psychological advantages of breastfeeding over substitutes.
- Supportive Counseling: Offer personalized support and counseling to mothers, especially those who have used breastmilk substitutes as prelacteal feeds. Encourage them to transition to exclusive breastfeeding.
- Policy Advocacy: Advocate for stronger implementation and enforcement of Cambodia's Sub-Decree 133, which regulates the promotion of breastmilk substitutes. Work with policymakers to create environments that support breastfeeding.
- Community Engagement: Engage with community leaders and health professionals to promote breastfeeding-friendly practices and environments. Conduct workshops and seminars to raise awareness about the risks associated with breastmilk substitutes.
Encouraging Further Research
While the current research provides valuable insights, further studies are needed to explore the long-term impacts of breastmilk substitute usage on child health and development. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in or initiate research that examines:
- The effectiveness of current policies and interventions in promoting breastfeeding.
- The socio-economic factors influencing mothers' choices regarding infant feeding.
- The role of healthcare professionals in shaping infant feeding practices.
Conclusion
The findings from Phnom Penh underscore the urgent need for concerted efforts to promote breastfeeding and regulate the promotion of breastmilk substitutes. By implementing evidence-based strategies and advocating for policy changes, practitioners can contribute significantly to improving child nutrition and health outcomes in Cambodia.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Pervasive promotion of breastmilk substitutes in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and high usage by mothers for infant and young child feeding.
