Disparities in Breastfeeding Patterns Persist Despite Improved Rates: Findings from Irish COSI R6

Abstract Background Breastfeeding is crucial for reducing childhood obesity, recommended exclusively for 6 months by World Health Organisation (WHO). Previous reports have highlighted disparities in breastfeeding patterns between Irish and non-Irish mothers. The Irish Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI) family survey offers insights into breastfeeding rates and patterns in Ireland and their differences between Irish and non-Irish mothers. Aims This study aims to compare the breastfeeding rates in Ireland between COSI Round 6 (R6) and COSI R5, elucidating the differences between Irish and non-Irish mothers. Additionally, it aims to establish the association between breastfeeding pattern and socio-economic factors involved in the Irish households. Methods Parents of 1st and 2nd class children (mean age 7) from 121 sentinel schools invited to participate in the family survey, returned it by post or online using Lime Survey. Ethical approval was secured for COSI R6, with consent from families. Data on breastfeeding rates and pattern were collected, anonymised, and analysed using SPSS version 29. Results Around 88% of respondents were mothers. The number of children breastfed for at least a month increased in R6 (55.7%) compared to R5 (45.6%). The mean duration of exclusive breastfeeding increased to 5.86 months in R6 from 4.91 months in R5, in line with WHO recommendations. Significant disparities were found in breastfeeding patterns, with higher rates among non-Irish mothers (67.8%) compared to Irish mothers (52.6%) (p < 0.001). Linear regression showed a significant association between breastfeeding duration and maternal birth country. Irish mothers exhibited a negative coefficient (b1=-2.442; 95% CI -4.1 to -0.8; p = 0.004), suggesting shorter breastfeeding durations compared to non-Irish mothers. Conclusions Breastfeeding rates improved in COSI R6 compared to R5. There are significant disparities in breastfeeding pattern between Irish and non-Irish mothers. Key messages • Improved breastfeeding rates indicate good feeding practices in Ireland. • Targeted interventions and policies are necessary to address the disparities between Irish and non-Irish mothers in breastfeeding patterns.