The Singapore Family Physician

Back to issue Vol 50 No. 7 - Combatting Common Respiratory Illnesses: Vaccination Strategies in Singapore

Breastfeeding Prevalence and Child Feeding Practices: Key findings from Singapore’s National Breastfeeding and Child Feeding Survey 2021/22

Charissa Lim
Priscilla Li
Chng Chee Yeong
Chong Foong-Fong Mary
Lee Yu Qi
Chua Mei Chien
Eunice Pang
The Singapore Family Physician Vol 50 No 7 - Combatting Common Respiratory Illnesses: Vaccination Strategies in Singapore
1 July 2024
0377-5305
Introduction: The 2021/2022 National Breastfeeding and Child Feeding Survey is the third national-level study on breastfeeding and child feeding practices in Singapore. It aims to provide updated statistics on breastfeeding prevalence, from the previous 2011 National Breastfeeding Survey, and collect data on child feeding practices. Methods: 2,103 mothers with babies under 2 years old were recruited from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority Birth Registry database. Respondents completed both online surveys and phone interviews relating to breastfeeding and child feeding practices. Univariate analyses were conducted to examine factors related to initiation and continuation of breastfeeding, alongside child feeding practices. Results: The prevalence of mothers who have ever breastfed remained high at 97%, comparable with 2011 (96%). Compared to babies born in hospitals that are not certified with the baby-friendly hospital initiative (BFHI), babies born in BFHI-certified hospitals were more likely to be ever breastfed (98% vs 96%), breastfed within one hour of birth (65% vs 49%) and exclusively breastfed for the first two days after birth (43% vs 35%). 59% of infants initiated complementary feeding between 6-7 months while 29% initiated between 4-6 months. Socioeconomic factors influenced both breastfeeding prevalence and the provision of adequate, diverse and nutritious food to children. Factors include being an ethnic minority, having lower household income, and having lower maternal educational levels. Conclusion: Despite improvements in breastfeeding prevalence from 2011, exclusive breastfeeding prevalence remains low. Moreover, disparities in child feeding practices were observed within lower socioeconomic segments. To optimize the impact of health promotion endeavors, initiatives focused on promoting breastfeeding and complementary child feeding practices should consider these aspects.