Influence of maternal breastfeeding practices on the anthropometric status of their infants (0-12 months) in Arochukwu L.G.A Abia State, Nigeria

Background: Breast milk remains the best start to life in all areas of infants’ development. Cow is for cows and human breast babies.Objectives: This study assessed influence maternal breastfeeding practices on anthropometric status their infant (0-12 months) Arochukwu L.G.A. Abia State.Methods: A total 250 mothers were selected using simple random sampling technique. Data socio-economic/demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude practice towards exclusive breastfeeding, factors that breastfeeding. Anthropometric measurements weight height taken standard procedures. The IBM SPSS version 20 was used analyze data. WHO anthro compute children.Results: About 38.4% aged between 20-24 years. Majority (62.5%) married. 73.2% earned below ₦20, 000 monthly. 42.4% exclusively breastfed babies while about 33.2% children initiated within 30 mins after birth. 0-6 months before introducing complementary foods. Half (53.6%) had a good knowledge breastfeeding; 41.2% poor few (5.2%) an excellent knowledge. 33.6% fed with formula, 24.8% delivery. (71.2%) 3-4 times daily. More than half infants (56.8%) stunted, 40.4% underweight 15.2% wasted. prevalence stunting wasting higher males females; more among 7-9 old children. Conclusion: high levels malnutrition this underline great need nutrition intervention. Exclusive timely introduction appropriate feeding key factor child growth.