Infant formula feeding and associated factors in Debre Berhan City: A community based cross-sectional study

Introduction: Globally, there is rising concern over the growing reliance on breast milk substitutes (BMSs). However, limited studies have been conducted to explore this issue in Ethiopia. Objective: To assess infant formula feeding and associated factors among mothers of infants aged 0-6 months in Debre Berhan City, 2023. Methods and materials: This cross-sectional study used a multistage sampling technique to select 656 mothers residing in Debre Berhan city. The data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were employed to identify the factors associated with infant formula feeding. The findings are then presented as frequencies, percentages, and odds ratios. Results: The prevalence of infant formula feeding in Debre Berhan city was 39.7 %. In addition, having a female child [AOR = 1.75, 95 % CI: 1.08-2.86], receiving a college education or higher [AOR = 5.79, 95 % CI: 2.38-14.08], being in the age category of 25-34 [AOR = 2.38, 95 % CI: 1.10-5.15] or 35-45 [AOR = 3.43, 95 % CI: 1.35-8.69], being a prime mother [AOR = 1.81, 95 % CI: 1.12-2.94], receiving breastfeeding advice [AOR = 4.64, 95 % CI: 2.78-7.75], delivering via a C-section [AOR = 5.39, 95 % CI: 2.54-11.42], initiating breastfeeding late [AOR = 2.26, (95 % CI: 1.41-3.64)], or being unaware of the risks associated with infant formula feeding [AOR = 5.48, 95 % CI: 3.20-9.39] were the factors that drove mothers towards infant formula feeding. Conclusion: In Debre Berhan city, the prevalence of infant formula feeding was high. Fortunately, with appropriate interventions, most of the factors that led to infant formula feeding could be effectively addressed.