Effects of Bottle-Feeding Practice on Undernutrition Among Children 6 to 23 Months Old in Bole Sub-City Health Centers, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia: Unmatched Case-Control Study

Abstract

Abstract Background Nowadays, both metropolitan areas of underdeveloped countries and the industrialized world use bottles to feed babies. Particularly in developing nations like sub-Saharan Africa, this practice is linked to an increased risk of diarrheal illnesses. In Bole Sub-City Health Centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, this study was carried out to assess the impact of bottle-feeding practice on undernutrition in children aged 6–23 months. Objective Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of bottle feeding and its effects on undernutrition and the risk of developing diarrheal infections in children aged 6 to 23 months in Bole, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia. Methods A facility-based unmatched case-control study was carried out in Bole, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia, from November 1 to October 30, 2020. 162 mothers who had children between the ages of 6 and 23 months were used to recruit a total of 52 cases and 103 controls (1:2 ratios). With the aid of a multivariable binary logistic regression model, bottle-feeding effects were discovered. Bottle feeding was determined to be significantly linked with variables. Results 53.8% of the total 52 cases were wasted, compared to 29.1% of the controls, demonstrating a strong correlation between wasting and bottle feeding (AOR = 3.38, 95% C.I.: ((1.33,8.61)). Compared to the control group, the bottle-feeding group experienced more diarrhea (AOR = 3.47, 95% C.I.: 1.07, 11.16). Factors related to bottle feeding were having a cesarean section (AOR = 4.09, 95% C.I.: 1.59, 10.52), and working for the government (AOR = 5.03, 95% C.I.: 1.87, 13.57). Conclusion Children who were being bottle-fed had higher rates of wasting and diarrhea. Bottle feeding was substantially correlated with the delivery method and the husband's employment. During ANC follow-up, mothers may receive counseling regarding the hazards of bottle feeding, which could enhance optimal feeding techniques after 6 months.