The Effect of Exclusive Breastfeeding on the Growth of Infants Aged 0–6 Months
Keywords:
Breastfeeding, Exclusive Breastfeeding, Infant Growth, Infant Weight Gain, NutritionAbstract
Exclusive breastfeeding is recognized as the optimal feeding practice during the first six months of life because it provides complete nutrition required to support infant growth and development. However, the implementation of exclusive breastfeeding remains suboptimal in many communities, potentially affecting infant nutritional status and growth. This study aimed to analyze the effect of exclusive breastfeeding on the growth of infants aged 0–6 months in the working area of Dolik Primary Health Center, South Halmahera Regency. A quantitative study with a cross-sectional correlational design was conducted involving 30 mothers with infants aged 0–6 months. Data on breastfeeding practices were collected through interviews, while infant growth was assessed based on weight gain measurements. Univariate analysis was used to describe respondent characteristics and study variables, whereas the relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and infant growth was analyzed using Kendall’s tau-b test. The results showed that more than half of the mothers practiced exclusive breastfeeding, and most infants experienced appropriate weight gain. Statistical analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and infant growth, suggesting that infants who received exclusive breastfeeding tended to achieve better weight gain than those who did not. These findings highlight the importance of promoting exclusive breastfeeding as an effective strategy to improve infant nutritional status and support optimal growth during the first six months of life. Strengthening breastfeeding education and support programs may contribute to improving exclusive breastfeeding practices and child health outcomes.
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