BREASTFEEDING AS A PROTECTIVE FACTOR FOR CHRONIC DISEASES: KNOWLEDGE OF PREGNANT AND PUERPERAL WOMEN

Abstract

Objective: The aim is to evaluate the knowledge of pregnant and postpartum women about breastfeeding as a protective factor against chronic diseases. Methodology: This is a descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study conducted between January and March 2023. The sample consisted of 11 pregnant women in the third trimester, 29 postpartum women, and three women who gave birth one year previously. Data collection was conducted at Basic Health Units and during home visits, using a form covering demographic characteristics, information on health care provided during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and knowledge of breastfeeding as a protective factor against chronic noncommunicable diseases. Data were tabulated in Excel spreadsheets and imported into the Stata statistical package (version 12.0). Data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially, and then presented in tables. Results: Of the 43 women evaluated, 100% received prenatal care, 91% reported never having participated in a breastfeeding education activity at the primary care unit, and 77% did not receive breastfeeding guidance during their postpartum visit. Regarding knowledge of breastfeeding as a protective factor against chronic diseases, 58.14% reported being unaware of this fact. Final considerations: The findings indicated that just over half of the participants were unaware that breastfeeding is a protective factor against chronic diseases, highlighting the need to strengthen health education strategies aimed at this population.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2025.031-013