Breastfeeding Patterns and Determinants in the Near East: An Analysis for Four Countries

Citation

Akin, John S.; Bilsborrow, Richard E.; Guilkey, David K.; & Popkin, Barry M. (1986). Breastfeeding Patterns and Determinants in the Near East: An Analysis for Four Countries. Population Studies, 40(2), 247-262.

Abstract

Few detailed studies of the determinants of breastfeeding behaviour have been carried out, especially in the Middle East. We provide a comparative investigation of patterns and determinants of breastfeeding in four Middle East countries (Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia and Yemen) based on WFS data. Differences in factors influencing ever-breastfeeding, continuing breastfeeding from very short to moderate durations, and extending breastfeeding into the second year are observed, indicating "structural shifts" in the determinants of breastfeeding. Differences between countries are also found which can only roughly be associated with differences in modernization and urbanization. Lack of consistently negative effects of women's education and work status variables is attributed to the extremely low levels of both in the region. Interesting results are observed regarding effects of pill use and sex of child (boys being breastfed longer), suggesting the need for thorough studies to explain these findings further.

URL

https://doi.org/10.1080/0032472031000142056

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year Published

1986

Journal Title

Population Studies

Author(s)

Akin, John S.
Bilsborrow, Richard E.
Guilkey, David K.
Popkin, Barry M.

ORCiD

Bilsborrow - 0000-0002-0053-7356
Popkin - 0000-0001-9495-9324