Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Mothers of Infant Between 0 And 6 Months Attending The Health Centres Heal Africa And Virunga, GOMA, DRC

Introduction: The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) has remained low for a long time in low- and middle-income countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, it’s one of the effective means and a global priority to reduce infant morbidity and mortality due to respiratory and diarrheal diseases. This study aimed to identify the determinants of EBF of infants from zero to six months in the city of Goma, North kivu, DRC, in order to improve the rate. Method: A longitudinal study was adopted, consisting of a historical follow-up of 422 breastfeeding mothers attending Virunga and Heal Africa health centres from April to August 2021. These two health centres belong respectively to the health zones of Karisimbi and Goma, both in Goma city. Data were collected by a pre-tested and structured questionnaire. The sociodemographic, clinical and environmental determinants of EBF were investigated by statistical analyses. The non-exclusive breastfeeding determinants were calculated by using the Cox’s regression model. Results: The EBF rate was 50.2%. Four determinants were significantly associated with the risk of introducing new foods to infants before 6 months. Those are: the living environment (aRR = 2.53, 95% CI [1.12-4.09], p=0.007), a cesarean section delivery (aRR = 2.84, 95% CI [1.08-3.43], p = 0.003), lack of post natal care visit (aRR = 1.92, 95% CI [1.09-2.75], p = 0.015), as well as lack of knowledge about EBF (aRR = 3.29; 95% CI [1.10-4.71], p = 0.013) which increased the risk of discontinuing the EBF. Conclusion: It is vital to develop and step up communication strategies and actions aimed at increasing the knowledge of women of childbearing age and breastfeeding mothers about the benefits of the EBF and the importance of attending the various consultations visit. All communication channels should be used to reach women wherever they live.