Hispanics/Latinos are the fastest growing ethnic group in the U.S., with a birthrate of 107 per 1,000. It is predicted that Hispanics will be the largest ethnic group in the U.S. by the year 2,005. In Los Angeles County, Hispanics now represent 43% of the population. Furthermore, currently 61% of the total births in Los Angeles County are Latino. Many efforts to educate Hispanic mothers in infant feeding and care practices are not culturally nor linguistically appropriate, much less literacy level specific. Much of the lack of appropriate health education is based on the deficiency of information regarding the Hispanic population and the effects of culture on infant care practices. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with infant care and feeding behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs of Latina immigrant women of childbearing age. Interviews were conducted among 250 Latinas with children ranging from 0 to 72 months. All women had resided in the U.S. for 10 years or less and were recruited in pregnancy and pediatric clinics in Los Angeles and Northern Orange Counties. All interviews were conducted in Spanish. Key factors presented include: the impact of country of origin and WIC participation on breast feeding initiation, duration and cessation; bottle feeding initiation and cessation; method of milk extraction; and, baby’s age at initiation of liquids and solid foods. Difference in breastfeeding patterns by age and education level will also be examined and implications for development and refinement of infant care programs will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: By the end of the session, participants will be able to: 1. Understand the impact of WIC participation and country of origin on breastfeeding incidence and duration among Latina immigrant mothers. 2. Differentiate between Latina subpopulations and the impact of country of origin on infant feeding practices. 3. Understand the factors which impact the age appropriate introduction of foods and liquids among Latina immigrant mothers. 4. Determine the methodological and programmatic components necessary for the development of culturally, linguistically, and literacy level specific infant health projects targeting the diverse Latino population
Keywords: Breast Feeding, Latinas
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.