Basic needs in the first 1000 golden days of life: A cross-sectional study of risk and protective factors in the first two years of life with emphasis on exclusive breastfeeding

Objective(s):The first thousand days of life comprise 270 days of pregnancy and 630 days in the first two years of life.The aim of this study was to investigate the basic needs during this critical period in Kerman, with a particular focus on exclusive breastfeeding.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Kerman province in 2021 as part of the 'Pilot Implementation of the National Awareness Campaign for the First 1000 Days of Life'.The study involved 712 mothers with children under two years of age, using a quota sample.The measurement tool was a self-designed questionnaire that focused on the four basic needs of the child and was completed in face-to-face interviews.Results: Only 3.8% of participants were aware of the definition of the first 1000 days of life.Exclusive breastfeeding was reported by 33.2%, while 25.5 breastfed until the age of 24 months.Folic acid consumption before pregnancy was reported by 16.0%, and the cesarean section rate was 51.9%.In addition, the consumption of snacks and industrial juices by their children was reported at 29.6% and 39.9% respectively.Spouse's education level, spouse's involvement in childcare, and natural childbirth were positively correlated with exclusive breastfeeding, while low birth weight had an inverse association (p < 0.05). Conclusion:This study showed that several factors affect children's health such as exclusive breastfeeding, continued breastfeeding until 24 months of age and folic acid consumption before pregnancy and were not at an acceptable level.It is important to educate parents about the risk and protective factors in the first thousand days of life.