While M&E indicators and toolkits exit to aid breastfeeding measurement, they often remain unknown to program implementers. As a result, much of the breastfeeding data collected is not comparable to other program data, DHS data, or other data sources. While the importance of accurate breastfeeding data is widely recognized, as well as the relationship between measuring impact and continued donor funding, these tested breastfeeding indicators and evaluation methodology remain underemployed.
Standardization of breastfeeding-related survey questions is a necessary evaluation tool for all agencies in order to measure both program effectiveness as well as change over time. Utilizing standard questions, the LINKAGES project presents impact data from Bolivia, Ghana, India, and Madagascar which reflect change in the following rates: exclusive breastfeeding, timely introduction of breastfeeding, LAM acceptor and timely complementary feeding. For comparison, both DHS and partner questions and data are presented, and an analysis of potential biased estimation is presented.
Given the necessity for demonstrating impact, breastfeeding programs must also concentrate efforts on measuring the steps to breastfeeding behavior change by conducting periodic program monitoring as well as process evaluations. LINKAGES has utilized the LQAS methodology to enhance program monitoring, rapid assessments to provide interim "snapshots" of change, home-visit monitoring tools and a variety of qualitative, process evaluations to identify successes and challenges to the country programs' success. These methods and data will also be presented for discussion.
See www.linkagesproject.orgLearning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participant will be able to: 1. identify current challenges in measuring breast feeding change 2. recognize the program importance of ongoing M&E in breastfeeding programs 3. assess the methods presented for appropriate application
Keywords: Breast Feeding, Evaluation
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: LINKAGES is a Cooperating Agency of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Currently in its fifth year of global operation, and its third year of country-level implementation, LINKAGES is a global program whose strategic objectiv
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am the Monitoring & Evaluation Manager of the
LINKAGES Project.