Pre-lacteal feeding practices and associated factors among mothers of children under 24 months age in Ethiopia: A geo-additive model approach

Pre-lacteal feeding was higher and continues to be a significant practice in Ethiopia, shaped by maternal characteristics, sociodemographic factors, and geographic location. Mothers in pastoralist regions are more likely to practice pre-lacteal feeding which needs the implementation of mobile maternal health services. The spatial analysis identified potential hotspots areas where interventions are urgently needed. To reduce pre-lacteal feeding rates, public health efforts should prioritize increasing antenatal care attendance, ensuring timely breastfeeding initiation, and strengthening exclusive breastfeeding education. Additionally, tailored strategies addressing regional disparities must be implemented to enhance child health outcomes across the country.