Caregivers Perception Values And Challenges On Infant And Young Child Feeding In Addis Ababa

The nutritional status of children under two years of age is directly affected by infant andrnyoung child feeding (IYCF) practices. To enhance nutrition, health, and development ofrnchildren aged 6-23 months, the improvement of IYCF practices is crucial. In Ethiopiarnbreastfeeding is not adequate, complementary foods Introduced not on time, and thernconsumption of animal source food and vitamin A rich food is very low. And inappropriaternIYCF practice has negative impact on their growth. The aim of the study was to explorernmothers or caregivers’ perception on characteristics of IYC foods and to identify the cultural,rnbehavioral, and psychological aspects of IYCF practice in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.rnThe study employed Focused Ethnographic Study (FES) and it was conducted in Bole andrnYeka Sub-Cities. A priory sampling technique was used to recruit study participants and datarnwas collected in two phases by using in-depth interview and cognitive mapping techniques. Arntotal of 16 participants were involved and thematic analysis was performed for qualitative data.rnCerifam and porridge were the core IYC foods in both behavioral and cultural perspectives.rnCold/stored foods /left overs are widely considered bad for IYC. Low income coupled withrnhigh-priced IYC foods, raising a child by babysitters, and poor appetite of a child were thernmajor challenges that parents faced while raising their IYC. From mothers’ perspective, thernhealth benefit of the food they feed their IYC is crucial and is the main value that influencerntheir decision on IYC food. Caregivers report valuing foods for their contribution to mentalrndevelopment and that improves child's weight. They believe all foods are not equally healthyrnand foods essential for child health are very expensive.rnCurrently infants and young children routinely receive cereal based foods. Inappropriaternfeeding practice: feeding below recommendation, feeding leftovers, pre-mastication wasrnidentified. Financial problem was the major challenge and the health benefit of food is thernmain value that influence caregivers’ food choice. Health education and BCC (behavioralrnchange communication) intervention is needed to improve caregivers’ perception andrnfeeding behavior. The government should consider alternative child care. Additionalrnresearches needed to evaluate the effect of IYCF practice on IYC nutritional status in urbanrnsettings.

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