Infant feeding in the Philippines

Abstract

Using data from the 1983 and the 1993 Philippine National Demographic Survey, this study documents a reversal of the trend in breastfeeding initiation in the Philippines which had been declining prior to 1983. Changes in the distribution of women across population subgroups between the two surveys exerted a downward pressure on the proportion of children ever breastfed. The potential for a decline was more than overcome by changes in behaviour which may be attributed to successes in breastfeeding promotion programs in the country. This reversal should not generate complacency about programs to promote breastfeeding. It has been observed that although initiation of breastfeeding had increased, duration of breastfeeding declined. Changes in population composition between the two periods, and to a larger extent, changes in behaviour accounted for the observed changes in breastfeeding duration. Strengthening of breastfeeding campaigns towards longer breastfeeding is therefore necessary. Early introduction of foods other than breastmilk to Filipino infants is common. Bottles with nipples are used extensively. The fact that foods other than breastmilk are introduced to infants at an early age should cause great concern. Programs emphasising the importance of longer unsupplemented breastfeeding are important.