Journal of Tropical Pediatrics Advance Access published online on June 19, 2007
Journal of Tropical Pediatrics, doi:10.1093/tropej/fmm045
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Is Exclusive Artificial Feeding Feasible at 6 Months Post Partum in Cameroon Urban Areas for HIV-Exposed Infants?
aNational AIDS Control Committee, bLaquintinie Hospital Douala, cNational insurance fund Hospital, and dFondation Chantal Biya
Correspondence: Anne Njom Nlend, MD, Paediatrician, National AIDS Control Committee, PO Box 1459 Yaoundé, Cameroon. Tel.: 237 770 4006. E-mail < njom_anne{at}yahoo.fr>.
Abstract
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The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of infant feeding options of HIV positive mothers in urban areas (especially compliance to artificial feeding choices), before the implementation of the infant feeding interventions and procurement of breastmilksubstitutes. We conducted a survey among seropositive women diagnosed during pregnancy and counselled for infant feeding options. At 6 months post delivery an interview was done. 47 mothers were included. Bromocriptine was prescribed to all the mothers who opted for artificial feeding from birth.
Findings: After counselling 85% of women opted for exclusive artificial feeding of whom 83% mothers practised this option since birth. For those who opted for replacement feeding The main given reason for infant feeding choice was related to medical or nurses advices. Overall 36% [CI 95%, 2250] of the mothers who opted for artificial milk faced difficulties to afford supplies during the 6 months, leading into an early introduction of paps. Clinical mastitis were mentioned by all those mothers who breastfed. Infant feeding choices were related to the level of education (X2 = 24.10, P = 0.002).
Conclusion: Artificial feeding under recovery of cost seems feasible in urban areas in Cameroon and can be facilitate by the administration of antilacteal drugs. More adequate support must be provided for the mother who breastfeed in order to prevent and to treat mastitis. Additional training for counselling in HIV and infant feeding options is recommended for health workers.