Investigation of Infant Feeding Practice and Nutritional Status among Selected Tribal and Non-tribal Community in Bangladesh

Abstract

Malnutrition is one of the major causes of mortality for children in developing countries. Inappropriate feeding practices can have profound consequences for the growth, development, and survival of infants and children. A cross sectional study was carried out among 180 mother-infant pair of the tribal (Garo) and Non-tribal (Non-Garo) households at Madhupur Upazilla in Tangail region. The objectives of the study were to assess the feeding behavior of Garo and Non-Garo mothers and also prevalence of malnutrition among infants and young children. More than half of Garo respondents had smaller family size and a higher spending on food compared to Non-Garo respondents. From the breast feeding related information it was seen that colostrum was given to their babies as the first food in Garo (81.2%) and Non Garo groups (63.4%) respectively. It was also observed that 12.2% Garo mothers gave powder milk, but the non-Garo mothers preferred honey and sugar water. Exclusive breast-feeding in Garo and Non-Garo areas were 64.6% and 45.7% respectively. In Non-Garo areas breast feeding continued longer times than Garo areas. The predominance of moderate to severe underweight in Non-Garo and Garo areas were 42.21% and 34.44% respectively. A similar trend of stunting and wasting was found in both groups of the infants. Finally, it can be clearly viewed and concluded that the feeding practices of mothers from Garo community were better compared to Non-Garo communities, and largely depends on various socioeconomic factors that affect the nutritional status of their children.