[Breastfeeding in two Brazilian State capitals: a comparative analysis].

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutrition Science
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Infant feeding practices are crucial for child survival and development.
• Assessing breastfeeding and complementary feeding is vital for public health initiatives.
• National Immunization Days provide opportunities for rapid health assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To rapidly assess infant feeding practices in Florianópolis and João Pessoa, Brazil.
• To identify patterns in exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding.
• To compare infant feeding outcomes between the two Brazilian cities.

Main Methods:

• Surveys conducted during National Immunization Day.
• Data collection focused on infant feeding practices.
• Analysis of exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding rates.

Main Results:

• Most infants initiated breastfeeding, but exclusive breastfeeding rates (0-4 months) were below recommended levels (46.3% Florianópolis, 23.9% João Pessoa).
• Timely complementary feeding rates were also suboptimal (32.2% Florianópolis, 24.8% João Pessoa).
• Florianópolis showed higher exclusive breastfeeding and longer breastfeeding duration medians compared to João Pessoa.

Conclusions:

• Significant disparities exist in infant feeding practices between Florianópolis and João Pessoa.
• Current rates of exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding necessitate targeted interventions.
• Data can inform and enhance planning for infant nutrition policies and breastfeeding support programs.