Cambodian Refugee Infant Feeding Practices in the U.S.
Author Information
Author(s): Becky Straub, Cathy Melvin, Miriam Labbok
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
Is a culturally-specific breastfeeding program appropriate for Cambodian refugee mothers in the U.S.?
Conclusion
A culturally-specific Cambodian breastfeeding support program may help overcome some breastfeeding problems reported by Cambodian refugee mothers in the U.S.
Supporting Evidence
- All participants practiced traditional Cambodian diets and rituals despite living in the U.S. for many years.
- Eight out of nine women introduced infant formula while in the hospital.
- Perceived low milk supply was a common reason for partial breastfeeding.
Takeaway
This study looked at how Cambodian refugee mothers feed their babies in the U.S. and found that many still follow their traditional practices, but they face challenges with breastfeeding.
Methodology
The study used a self-administered questionnaire and in-person interviews to gather data from nine Cambodian refugee mothers.
Potential Biases
The convenience sampling method may introduce bias as it does not represent the broader Cambodian community.
Limitations
The small sample size and the fact that participants had lived in the U.S. for many years and spoke English limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Participants were Cambodian refugee mothers, aged 18 and older, who had lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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