Awareness and knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers in Malaysia: a systematic review

Kamaruddin, Nur Ain Masitah and E. Zainudin, Engku Nuraishah Huda and Soe, May Khin and Mohammad, Khairool Azizul (2023) Awareness and knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers in Malaysia: a systematic review. Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3 (2). pp. 119-135. E-ISSN 2582-8371

PDF (Review) - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (391kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Background: Evidence suggest exclusive breastfeeding helps to build child’s immunity and reduce infants’ morbidity and mortality. For mothers, breastfeed promotes speedy recovery after giving birth because of the hormones release during breastfeed. Despite the numerous benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), the Ministry of Health (MOH) has reported that the rate of EBF in many nations, including Malaysia, remains low. This poses a significant challenge as there are several factors contributing to this problem, which need to be addressed in order to improve the health of both the mother and the baby. Therefore, the aim of this study is twofold: firstly, to assess the awareness and knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers in Malaysia, and secondly, to provide valuable insights into the various problems that hamper successful breastfeeding practices among mothers. Methods: Literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus and Google scholar databases and multiple keywords were used. Some criteria were applied to filter each study to be included in this review. To analyse quality of this study, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 standards was used and extracted data were explained using texts, tables and figures. Results: This review analysed a total of sixteen studies, comprising cross-sectional surveys, cohort studies and qualitative studies. The results revealed that most mothers are aware of the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for new-borns. Although a considerable proportion of mothers reported practicing EBF, a significant number lacked knowledge about the benefits of colostrum. The review identified unsupportive workplaces as the primary obstacle preventing mothers from sustaining EBF, resulting in low rates of exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion: This study underscores the fact that mothers in Malaysia possess adequate knowledge regarding exclusive breastfeeding. However, it highlights the challenges that mothers face, particularly after returning to work, which contribute to the low rates of exclusive breastfeeding. Thus, the study recommends the implementation of a breastfeeding policy in the workplace and the development of more comprehensive breastfeeding education programs to improve maternal knowledge and practice of EBF.

Item Type:	Article (Review)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Awareness, knowledge, education, exclusive breastfeeding, mothers, Malaysia
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General) R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine R Medicine > RS Pharmacy and materia medica
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Pharmacy > Department of Basic Medical Sciences Kulliyyah of Pharmacy
Depositing User:	Dr Engku Nuraishah Huda E.Zainudin
Date Deposited:	21 Nov 2023 13:59
Last Modified:	21 Nov 2023 14:01
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/107494

Actions (login required)

View Item