Formula feeding practice and associated factors among mothers with 0-23 months of age children attending EPI service at public health institutions in Chiro town, West Hararghe zone, Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

The absence of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life is a significant risk factor for newborn and childhood morbidity and mortality.Despite the fact the formula feeding has increased dramatically in urban areas, there is limitted scientific evidence available about the practice of formula feeding and the associated factors in developing countries like Ethiopia, particularly at Eastern Ethiopia. In order to interervene the situation, it was necessary to assess actual practice of formula feeding and its factors.