Does stream of education affect the knowledge and attitude regarding breastfeeding among adolescent students?

Authors

  • Sudip Bhattacharya
  • Amarjeet Singh
  • Kiran h Prakas

Abstract

Background: The benefits of breastfeeding are accepted universally. Inadequate knowledge, or unfavourable attitude, affects future perception of women toward breastfeeding during adolescence. Aims & Objectives: (1) To compare the knowledge and attitude regarding breastfeeding among fresh graduates (science versus other streams) and (2) To analyse the syllabus of breastfeeding-related topics during formal education in schools. Material & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among teenage college students (n = 187) in Chandigarh. Knowledge and attitude of students from science versus other (arts and commerce) streams about breastfeeding were assessed using a questionnaire. The authors also analysed the syllabus of science. Descriptive statistical analysis was done by SPSS(V-16). Item wise chi- square test was applied. Results: Almost all students knew the benefits of breastfeeding irrespective of the stream. Some knowledge gaps were noticed. Majority (69.2%) from others stream considered breast milk as unhygienic. Some (30.8%) of them believed that small breasts produce insufficient milk. Science stream students (63.4%) were more confident about their future breastfeeding.  Most of the other group students (96.2%) did not know the preventive role of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding topic is inadequately discussed in schools. Conclusion: Students from science stream had better knowledge and favourable attitude toward breastfeeding.

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Published

2016-12-31

How to Cite

1.
Bhattacharya S, Singh A, Prakas K h. Does stream of education affect the knowledge and attitude regarding breastfeeding among adolescent students?. Indian J Community Health [Internet]. 2016 Dec. 31 [cited 2024 Nov. 21];28(4):337-43. Available from: http://iapsmupuk.org/journal/index.php/IJCH/article/view/701

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