einstein (São Paulo). 03/Nov/2021;19:eAO6451.
Breastfeeding versus free distribution of infant formulas by the Public Health System
DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2021AO6451
ABSTRACT
Objective:
To characterize the situation of breastfeeding and the adequacy of prescription of infant formulas to infants assisted by a secondary care program of the Public Health System.
Methods:
This is a cross-sectional study with analysis of medical records of 350 infants from zero to 6 months, followed up between February to April 2019.
Results:
The possibility of breastfeeding was present in 97.0% of mothers and no infant presented an acceptable medical condition for proscription of breastfeeding. Despite this, only 47.2% of cases were on exclusive breastfeeding before being referred to the program. Regarding the reasons for the introduction of infant formulas, complementation to breast milk was the most present (75.8%), followed by mothers returning to the job market (20.1%). The general rates of inadequacy of those prescribed were 65% before arriving at the program, increasing to 69% (standard formulas) and 80% (formulas for special purposes) during follow-up.
Conclusion:
The low rate of exclusive breastfeeding and the indiscriminate prescription of infant formulas are a concern for damage to maternal-child healthcare and sound finances of the Public Health System.
Keywords: Breast feeding; Infant formula; Prescriptions; Unified Health System
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