Abstract

The overall objective of this study was to investigate the effect of socioeconomic factors on suboptimal breastfeeding practices among women in Zambia. The study used data from the 2007 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey to examine selected socioeconomic factors of having a mother feed an infant something other than breast milk before reaching the age of six months. The study chose to study suboptimal breastfeeding because of the effects that it has on infant morbidity and mortality and ultimately child health status in a country. The study employed a partial proportional odds model due to the order and categorical nature of the dependent variable. Discussion of the results is based on marginal effects but both standard coefficients and marginal effects are presented. Analysis of the study shows that almost all mothers breastfed their children (99%) but apparent differences exist in breastfeeding patterns where 61% of the women breastfed exclusively, 30.1% breastfed partially while 8.1% breastfed predominantly. With exclusive breastfeeding as the optimal breastfeeding practice, factors associated with suboptimal infant breastfeeding practices in the country include attainment of secondary education by the mothers, the mother being in middle and poor household wealth status. The study also shows that in Zambia child’s age, marital status of the mother’s and place of residence being among the control variables used in the study are major factors affecting choice of suboptimal breastfeeding practices. The study indicates poor adherence to WHO recommendations for breastfeeding practices and thus, there is need for child breastfeeding education at all levels in society. Improvement in education and wealth status for women will empower women to make right health choices for their children. Further research should pay attention to other factors such as social status, cultural factors and mother’s knowledge of recommendations and attitude towards the breastfeeding practices.

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School	: School of Law, Economics and Government
Issued Date	: 2014

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