Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal method of infant feeding and is associated with substantial health benefits for both infants and mothers. Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life is recommended by the World Health Organization and numerous pediatric organizations. Despite strong evidence supporting breastfeeding, global adherence to recommended breastfeeding practices remains variable.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate breastfeeding practices among mothers and examine their association with infant health outcomes, including growth, infection rates, hospitalization, nutritional status, and developmental indicators.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter observational study was conducted involving 4,800 mother–infant pairs recruited from maternal and child health centers between 2018 and 2024. Breastfeeding patterns, maternal characteristics, infant growth parameters, morbidity indicators, and developmental outcomes were analyzed. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify associations between breastfeeding practices and infant health outcomes.

Results

Exclusive breastfeeding was reported in 58% of infants during the first six months. Exclusively breastfed infants demonstrated lower rates of respiratory infections (18% vs. 33%), gastrointestinal infections (12% vs. 28%), hospital admissions (9% vs. 17%), and undernutrition (7% vs. 15%) compared with non-exclusively breastfed infants. Improved growth and developmental outcomes were also observed among exclusively breastfed infants.

Conclusion

Optimal breastfeeding practices significantly improve infant health outcomes, reduce infectious disease burden, and support healthy growth and development. Strengthening breastfeeding promotion programs and maternal support services remains essential for improving child health globally.