Food quality and nutritional status in university students of eleven Chilean regions (Rev Med Chile 2012; 140: 1571-1579.

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Determinants of exclusive breastfeeding in health centers in Santiago, Chile Introduction: Limited information is available regarding factors contributing to exclusive breastfeeding until the sixth month. This information is needed to design appropriate policy interventions. Methods: A survey about socio-demographic characteristics, information received, onset and duration of breastfeeding and causes of weaning was applied. Factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months were determined by multivariate logistic regression. Results: 256 mothers attending a public sector hospital and 158 mothers attending a private sector hospital responded to the survey. The following factors were higher in the private sector group: Education level, primiparity, cesarean sections and work outside the home (p < 0.02). 45.8% of mothers continued exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months, with no difference seen between groups. The main causes of weaning were: maternal decision (27.2%), perceived hunger (24.1%), esthetic factors (17.3%) and child's illness (13.0%). Exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months was associated with a previous successful breastfeeding (OR 5.4, 95% CI 2.2-13.2), female child (OR 5.5 CI 2.5-12.3), lower maternal education (OR 5.4 CI 2.4-11.7) and public health system (OR 2.1 CI 1.0-4.5). Conclusion: Weaning is often associated with maternal perceptions rather than objective data. Socio-demographic variables infl uence successful prolonged breastfeeding. Better education in health factors and breastfeeding might improve this situation.

Half of the studied subjects had an inadequate perception of the body image. Educative campaigns are needed to reinforce the concept of adequate weight. This may contribute to promote health and reduce the risk of obesity.

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