Experiences, Attitudes and Beliefs of Second ary School Students about Breastfeeding

The experiences, knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of 824 teenagers from 18 secondary schools in Enugu and Port Harcourt, about infant feeding and in particu lar breastfeeding, were investigated, using a questionnaire. The students had good experience of both breast and bottle-feeding as over 75 percent of them had been breast and/or bottle fed and over 80 percent had bottle-fed younger children. The students' knowledge of breastfeeding, breast milk and weaning was poor. Despite their extensive experience with bottle feeding and their poor knowledge of breast milk and breastfeeding, the basic attitudes and beliefs of the students about breastfeeding were positive. To reinforce these positive attitudes and beliefs, it is suggested that formal education on breastfeeding and infant feeding be part of health education programmes in secondary schools. By this meals, the breastfeeding culture inherent in the community can be promoted and protected.