KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES OF INFANT AND TODDLERS WEANING AMONG MOTHERS ATTENDING PEDIATRICS DEPARTMENT OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
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Keywords
Weaning, Infant Feeding, Complementary Foods, Maternal Knowledge, Nutrition, Pakistan.
Abstract
Introduction: Weaning is a critical stage in an infant’s development that involves introducing complementary foods alongside continued breastfeeding. Improper weaning practices can lead to malnutrition, infections, and growth issues in children.
Objective: To assess the knowledge and practices regarding weaning among mothers attending the Pediatrics Department of a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.
Materials and Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, from January 2024 to June 2024. A total of 200 mothers of infants aged 6–24 months were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 25.
Results: While 68% of mothers knew the recommended age for weaning, 40% did not follow WHO guidelines. Only 60% introduced appropriate foods, and maternal education significantly influenced feeding practices.
Conclusion: There is a gap between maternal knowledge and practice regarding weaning. Educational interventions are needed to promote proper weaning practices.
References
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Dr Misbah Ullah Khan
Experiential Registrar Department of Child Health Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr Tanzeela
Resident Pediatrics, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr Noor Ul Haram Khattak
Resident Pediatrics, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr Sadiq Akbar
Resident Pediatrics Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr Ruba Gul
Resident Pediatrics, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr Zia Muhammad
Associate Professor, Department of Child Health, Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan