Breastfeeding Patterns and Determinants in the Near East: An Analysis for Four Countries
Few detailed studies of the determinants of breastfeeding behaviour have been carried out, especially in the Middle East. We provide a comparative investigation of patterns and determinants of breastfeeding in four Middle East countries (Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia and Yemen) based on WFS data. Differences in factors influencing ever-breastfeeding, continuing breastfeeding from very short to moderate durations, and extending breastfeeding into the second year are observed, indicating 'structural shifts' in the determinants of breastfeeding. Differences between countries are also found which can only roughly be associated with differences in modernization and urbanization. Lack of consistently negative effects of women's education and work status variables is attributed to the extremely low levels of both in the region. Interesting results are observed regarding effects of pill use and sex of child (boys being breastfed longer), suggesting the need for thorough studies to explain these findings further.
Document Type: Research Article
Affiliations: 1: Department of Economics, and Fellow, Carolina Population Center, University Square, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27514 2: Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Fellow, Carolina Population Center, University Square, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27514 3: Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health and Fellow, Carolina Population Center, University Square, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27514
Publication date: 01 July 1986
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