The study uses a combination of a behavioral tool - the Breastfeeding Attrition Prediction Tool (BAPT) and a set of demographic variables to identify predictors of breastfeeding in an African-American population. A selective convenience sample of 202 pregnant African American women was recruited from a prenatal clinic and their feeding intention was determined. The BAPT instrument along with a set of demographic questions was administered at the first contact. Feeding behavior was assessed twice at week 1 and week 6 post-partum.
Factor analysis was used to determine the factor structure of the instrument. A regression analysis was done using the extracted BAPT factors and several demographic variables as independent variables, to determine the predictors of breastfeeding in this population.
The results of the factor analysis on the BAPT showed 4 factors with alpha values of 0.60, 0.75, 0.84 and 0.86 respectively. Breastfeeding initiation rate in this sample was 35% with rates at the second follow-up were 22.8%. The BAPT total score, having breastfed before and time to second follow up were significant predictors of breastfeeding behavior. Using the 4 subscale scores instead of the total score, we found that time to second follow-up and scale scores for Positive Breastfeeding Sentiment (PBS), Negative Breastfeeding Sentiment (NBS) and Professional Support (SPS) were significant predictors of behavior. Demographic variables were not significant predictors of feeding behavior at the second follow-up.
Learning Objectives: To understand the importance of predicting breastfeeding behavior to program planning and policy. To identify factors that predict breastfeeding behavior in African American women.
Keywords: Research, Breastfeeding
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.
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