Breastfeeding promotion in Kenya: changes in health worker knowledge, attitudes and practices, 1982-89

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Periodical article

Title:	Breastfeeding promotion in Kenya: changes in health worker knowledge, attitudes and practices, 1982-89
Authors:	Bradley, Janet E. Meme, Joyce
Year:	1992
Periodical:	Journal of Tropical Pediatrics
Volume:	38
Issue:	5
Period:	October
Pages:	228-234
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Kenya
Subjects:	health personnel breastfeeding Cultural Roles Health, Nutrition, and Medicine Education and Training Women and Their Children
External link:	http://tropej.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/38/5/228
Abstract:	In 1982, a study of health worker knowledge, attitudes and practices with respect to breastfeeding was undertaken in Kenya. A breastfeeding promotion campaign ensued, in which training of health workers was a major component. In 1989, the impact of this campaign was evaluated through a survey examining changes in health worker knowledge, attitudes and practices. Interviews were conducted in 58 hospitals throughout the country. The survey showed that considerable improvements in knowledge and substantial improvements in hospital practices have occurred, although none of these could be attributed to any single element of the breastfeeding promotion programme. Particularly undesirable practices which were common in 1982, such as separation of mother and baby, formula feeding and use of bottles, have virtually disappeared from Kenyan hospitals. Recommendations regarding future programme directions are made. Ref.