Determinants of exclusive breastfeeding duration in Xinjiang, PR China.

OBJECTIVE To document 'exclusive breastfeeding' duration and factors associated with duration in Xinjiang, PR China. METHODS A cohort of 1219 mothers in Xinjiang, PR China was recruited to study their infant feeding practices. The mothers who delivered babies during 2003 and 2004 were contacted in hospital and again at 0.5, 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5 and 6 months postpartum, or until they ceased to breastfeed. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire. Survival analysis was used to calculate the mean of 'exclusive breastfeeding' and explore factors affecting 'exclusive breastfeeding' duration. RESULTS The average 'exclusive breastfeeding' duration in Xinjiang was 1.8 months. Factors negatively associated with 'exclusive breastfeeding' duration were mother's going to work and using pacifier. Factors positively associated with 'exclusive breastfeeding' duration were 'whether the maternal mother breastfed her children' and deciding 'exclusive breastfeeding' before delivery. CONCLUSIONS 'Exclusive breastfeeding' duration in Xinjiang, PR China was short. The study identified some factors associated with 'exclusive breastfeeding' duration. The results suggested an education program aimed to correct traditional inappropriate breastfeeding perceptions and promote 'exclusive breastfeeding' in Xinjiang.