[Immigration and factors associated with breastfeeding. CALINA study]

Area of Science:

• Public Health and Epidemiology
• Maternal and Child Health
• Sociology of Health

Context:

• Breastfeeding practices and outcomes are influenced by diverse socio-cultural factors.
• Understanding maternal origin-specific characteristics is crucial for targeted public health interventions.
• The study examines breastfeeding in a representative infant population in Aragon, Spain.

Purpose:

• To identify socio-cultural, obstetric, and perinatal factors associated with complete breastfeeding (CBF) in the first four months of life.
• To compare these factors between mothers of Spanish origin and immigrant mothers.

Summary:

• Complete breastfeeding prevalence was higher in immigrant mothers (43% at 4 months, 23.8% at 6 months) compared to Spanish mothers (37.2% at 4 months, 13.9% at 6 months).
• Factors associated with CBF at 4 months differed: Spanish mothers were older, had higher education, greater parity, and higher rates of vaginal delivery.
• Immigrant mothers with CBF had higher BMI and worked at home; non-smoking was associated with CBF in both groups.

Impact:

• Findings reveal distinct determinants of breastfeeding success across different maternal populations.
• Highlights the need for culturally sensitive and origin-specific strategies to promote breastfeeding.
• Informs public health policies aimed at improving infant nutrition and maternal-child health outcomes.