Breastfeeding Awareness Among Pediatricians and Obstetricians in Japan
Author Information
Author(s): Mizuno Katsumi, Miura Fumihiro, Itabashi Kazuo, Macnab Iona, Mizuno Noriko
Primary Institution: Showa University of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Tokyo, Japan
Hypothesis
What are the knowledge and attitudes of pediatricians and obstetricians in Japan towards the WHO Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes?
Conclusion
Pediatricians and obstetricians in Japan generally have low levels of support for breastfeeding and familiarity with the WHO Code.
Supporting Evidence
- 66% of pediatricians agreed that 'Breastmilk is the best', compared to only 13% of obstetricians.
- 51% of pediatricians were familiar with the WHO Code, while only 18% of obstetricians were.
- Older pediatricians were more likely to support breastfeeding than younger ones.
Takeaway
Doctors in Japan don't know much about breastfeeding rules, and many think formula is just as good as breast milk.
Methodology
A self-completion questionnaire was sent to pediatricians and obstetricians in Japan to assess their knowledge and attitudes towards the WHO Code.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the influence of infant formula companies on hospital practices.
Limitations
The study may not represent all pediatricians and obstetricians in Japan as it was limited to specific networks.
Participant Demographics
132 pediatricians and 96 obstetricians from Japan.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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