Culture is central: a framework for incorporating cultural influences in promoting exclusive breastfeeding

Background Since 2003, the World Health Organization has recommended exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first 6 months of life. In the Northwest Region of Cameroon approximately 90% of women initiate breastfeeding, yet only 34% of these women EBF for the recommended 6 months. Study Objective To understand the influences on women's EBF practices in the Kumbo West Health District, Northwest Region, Cameroon. Aim and Methods Using qualitative grounded theory methodologies, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 6 women and 6 men followed by focus group discussions with 3 groups of women and 3 groups of men all selected using theoretical sampling to assure triangulation for a total of 37 female and 41 male participants. Results Three themes emerged that influence EBF practices: woman's readiness to EBF, cultural influences towards EBF, and perceived constraints to EBF. Conclusion These emergent themes were used to create a theoretical framework, which provides a guide for developing a breastfeeding health behavior change intervention in non‐Western settings that are less individualistic and more heavily influenced by peer and family norms and cultural beliefs. Grant Funding Source : Nestle Foundation