Breastfeeding Practices Among Infants Aged 0–6 Months in Suburban Dakar, Senegal

Introduction: Breastfeeding (BF) is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a key public health intervention to reduce infant morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings.In Senegal, although overall breastfeeding rates are high, optimal breastfeeding practices remain limited.This study aimed to determine the prevalence of breastfeeding, describe infant feeding practices, and identify factors associated with breastfeeding among infants aged 0 to 6 months in a peri-urban area of Dakar.Methods: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted from November 1, 2021, to February 28, 2022, at the Social Pediatrics Institute of Pikine, Dakar.Infants aged 0 to 6 months whose mothers gave informed consent were included.Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide and analyzed using SPSS version 21.Bivariate analysis was performed using the chi-square test, and multivariate analysis was conducted through binary logistic regression.Results: Among the 350 infants included, 99.7% were breastfed and 83.1% were exclusively breastfed at the time of the study.Early initiation of breastfeeding was observed in only 55.7% of cases.Multiparity (p = 0.012), maternal education level, and internet access were significantly associated with better breastfeeding practices.No significant associations were found between breastfeeding and maternal age, place of delivery, or mode of delivery. Conclusion:Despite high overall breastfeeding rates, early initiation remains suboptimal.Targeted interventions aimed at promoting exclusive breastfeeding, strengthening obstetric practices, educating parents, and improving access to reliable information are essential to optimize breastfeeding practices in both urban and rural areas of Senegal.