Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices (IYCF) in Shingak, Parachinar, Upper Kurram District, KP, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices are critical determinants of growth and developmental outcomes, yet suboptimal feeding behaviors remain prevalent in resource-limited settings. Objective: To evaluate IYCF practices in Shingak, Parachinar, Upper Kurram District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, using WHO-aligned indicators. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from July to September among 100 mother–child pairs selected by simple random sampling. Structured questionnaires assessed breastfeeding practices, colostrum provision, exclusive breastfeeding duration, timing of complementary feeding initiation, continued breastfeeding, formula exposure, iron-rich food intake, food group consumption, and feeding frequency, with analysis performed in SPSS version 25. Results: Breastfeeding prevalence was 98% and colostrum provision was 88%. Mean exclusive breastfeeding duration was 5.96 ± 0.35 months, and complementary feeding initiation occurred at 6.36 ± 1.43 months. Continued breastfeeding was reported by 67%, while infant formula exposure was reported by 82%. Iron-rich foods were provided to 55.3% of children. Food group intake was highest for grains/roots/tubers (96.5%) and lowest for other fruits/vegetables (32.9%) and legumes/nuts/seeds (35.3%). Conclusion: Although breastfeeding was widespread, complementary feeding diversity, iron-rich food provision, and sustained breastfeeding require improvement. Targeted maternal nutrition education and counseling are needed to strengthen adherence to WHO IYCF standards and improve child nutrition outcomes