Bobbi be best: the development and evaluation of an audio program to promote exclusive breastfeeding in Cameroon, Central Africa (626.8)

Abstract

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% EBF for the recommended 6 months. Study Objective: To design an Entertainment Education (EE) audio program and discussion guide to test the hypothesis that EE improves EBF knowledge, benefits, self‐efficacy, intention, and decreases misconceptions and barriers. Methods: Formative research consisting of 12 semi‐structured interviews (SI) and 6 focus group discussions (FGD) informed the content of a series of four episodes and discussion guide using grounded theory. Differences in EBF knowledge, misconceptions, benefits, barriers, self‐efficacy, and intention between and within the control group and the intervention group were evaluated using pre‐and post‐tests and analyzed with Wilcoxon Sign Test, and Mann‐Whitney statistical tests. Results: The audio program and discussion guide which was proven to significantly improve overall EBF knowledge, misconceptions, benefits, self‐efficacy, intention and decrease barriers within the intervention group (p <. 05). Conclusion: This study provided insight into influences on EBF and proved that an audio program and discussion guide is an effective method of providing breastfeeding education to this population. Grant Funding Source: Nestle Foundation