BREASTFEEDING AND HEALTH INDICATORS IN A MEDIUM-SIZED MUNICIPALITY IN MINAS GERAIS, 2023-2024: A DESCRIPTIVE-ANALYTICAL STUDY

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the relationship between the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and child health indicators in a medium-sized municipality in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study with a quantitative approach, conducted in Primary Health Care services in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil, between 2023 and 2024. A total of 311 caregivers of children under two years of age registered at Primary Health Care Units participated in the study. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured electronic questionnaire. Sociodemographic variables, prenatal care, childcare follow-up, gestational age at birth, and use of emergency care services were analyzed. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed, adopting a significance level of 5%. Results: A statistically significant association was observed between the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and prenatal care attendance (p=0.003), gestational age at birth (p<0.001), attendance at childcare consultations (p<0.001), and use of emergency care services (p<0.001). Children with shorter duration of exclusive breastfeeding showed a higher frequency of emergency care service utilization. Conclusion: The findings suggest a relationship between shorter duration of exclusive breastfeeding and worse child health indicators, reinforcing the importance of strategies aimed at promoting and supporting breastfeeding within Primary Health Care.