Infant and young child feeding practices in Lower Egypt: challenges and key findings for developing nations

Background In developing countries, the estimate of suboptimal nutrition-related morbidity and mortality among infants and young children is still very high. The study aimed at identifying the barriers to optimal infant and young child feeding practices (IYCF), assessing the impact on children’s nutritional status, and proposing solutions to improve health outcomes and reduce malnutrition in Lower Egypt. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at four primary health facilities providing maternal and child health care in two selected governorates located in Lower Egypt. A structured interview survey gathering data on maternal feeding practices related to infants and young children, clinical and nutritional status of infants, and their nutrient daily intake was administered to 235 mother–infant pairs. Results Exclusive breastfeeding was significantly reported in 55.8% ( p < 0.001 ), being optimum in only 8.9% of infants, and significantly predicted in mothers aged 25–29 years. Complementary feeding was initiated at ≥ 6 months in 58.3% of infants with commercial recipes being the predominant choice ( p < 0.001 ). Cessation of breastfeeding (34.5%) was mainly associated with maternal perception of insufficient breast milk (16.2%) and significantly associated with female gender ( p < 0.001 ), rural residence ( p < 0.001 ), maternal age (25–29 years), parental occupation, and paternal education ( p < 0.001 ). Calcium (58.7%), vitamin B2 (45.1%), and vitamin C (55.7%) were the only nutrients adequately consumed. Conclusions In Egypt, infant and young feeding practices are still far from the recommended levels, particularly among rural communities and mothers aged 25–29 years. Implementing future research and health education strategies aimed at supporting appropriate infant and young child feeding practices can play a key role in promoting better feeding habits and lowering malnutrition rates.