Factors Influencing Exclusive Breastfeeding of Children among Mothers Visiting OPD in Pediatric Hospitals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Breast milk is the natural first food for infants, providing all the energy and nutrients required for the first months of life.Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) up to six months is recommended by WHO and UNICEF, as it stimulates the immune system and protects against diarrhea and respiratory infections.Despite this, millions of under-five deaths each year could be prevented with improved EBF practices.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 263 mothers of children aged 12-24 months attending Shanti Hospital, Bagalkot.Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and binary logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with EBF.Results: Significant associations were observed between EBF and maternal education (95% CI: 0.37-8.03,p=0.02), mother's occupation (95% CI: 0.05-0.76,p=0.01), parity and willingness to breastfeed (95% CI: 0.08-1.05,p=0.02).Age of the mother also showed an association (95% CI: 0.21-1.40).Mothers with primary education, those who were housewives, multiparous mothers, and those willing to breastfeed were more likely to exclusively breastfeed.Conclusion: Exclusive breastfeeding practice remains suboptimal.Strengthening educational programs through primary health care and mass media is needed to promote, support, and sustain EBF practices.