Knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers towards weaning off breastfeeding at two years of age in Egypt

Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities recommend breastfeeding for at least 2 years, a practice also supported by Quranic teachings. Despite this, many mothers discontinue breastfeeding earlier than advised. The factors enabling some mothers to continue breastfeeding for 2 years or more are not well understood.
Objective: This study aimed to identify factors and outcomes associated with breastfeeding for 2 years or more by evaluating mothers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding breastfeeding and weaning, and their impact on children's growth and development. Subjects and Methods: A retrospective comparative KAP study was conducted with mothers of children aged 3-5 years. The study included 353 mothers who breastfed for 18 months or less (Group I: CBF18-) and 150 mothers who breastfed for 24 months or more (Group II: CBF24+). Children's growth was assessed using WHO growth charts, and developmental disorders were evaluated. Results: Mothers in Group II (CBF24+) had significantly higher knowledge, attitudes, and practices scores related to breastfeeding benefits, early exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for 6 months, and gradual weaning (P<0.05). Their children were less likely to be wasted (P<0.05) and experienced fewer episodes of illness (P<0.05). Developmental disorders like temper tantrums, night terrors, and others were linked to sudden, rather than gradual, weaning (P<0.05), but not to the duration of breastfeeding.
Conclusion: Mothers’ KAP significantly influences the ability to achieve CBF24+. Developmental disorders may arise from attachment issues due to sudden weaning. Early, intense EBF is predictive of longer breastfeeding and better emotional stability in children.