Sociocultural and Epidemiological Findings on Infant and Young Child Feeding

It presents a consolidation of data from national and regional health surveys, as well as qualitative data from IYCN studies, grey literature, and published peer-reviewed studies. The report highlights common challenges to effective infant and young child feeding practices, including the provision of pre-lacteal feeds, delayed initiation of breastfeeding, and the use of water and other liquids in addition to breast milk. It also discusses complementary feeding challenges, such as poor quality and low variety of foods, and the lack of knowledge on how to feed during and after illness. Additionally, it touches on socio-cultural and programmatic themes, including the issue of history, the integrity of communication of infant feeding messages, and the importance of including key supporting members, such as grandmothers and men, in health activities to support positive infant feeding practices.