The Effect of Maternal Knowledge on Exclusive Breastfeeding, Anaemia, and Malaria Risk in Infants: A Cross-Sectional Study in Guéra Province, Chad

Background: Malaria and anaemia are common and related health problems in poor countries. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) might contribute to prevent these diseases in infants, but research is unclear. This study aims to examine the connection between breastfeeding, anaemia, and malaria in Chad.

Methodology: This study randomized data from couple of mothers and infants in Mongo District, Guéra province, Chad, from June 2023 to July 2024. Researchers randomly selected households and gathered information about maternal knowledge on exclusive breastfeeding and infant health. Malaria in the infant was assessed by reviewing their medical records. Anaemia levels were measured using an auto-haematology analyser (HemoCue 301). Data analysis was performed using R statistical software version 4.4.1. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with anaemia and malaria through univariate and multivariate models. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: The study involved 226 mother and child couple. EBF was more common among mothers who received information from health centres. EBF was also linked to lower healthcare costs and consistent use of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLITNs). However, no significant association was found between EBF, anaemia, or malaria. Older infants (7-12 months) seemed more likely to have malaria, but this was not statistically significant. There was no difference in malaria risk based on gender (p = 4.1) or nutritional status (p= 0.1) according to logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion: Encouraging breastfeeding requires a multifaceted approach and more research to understand its full impact on child health, particularly in relation to anaemia and malaria.