Characteristics and Factors of Israeli Arab Mothers Related to Exclusive Breastfeeding

Exclusive breastfeeding (EB), feeding an infant solely with breast milk, has been widely recommended due to its numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers. Despite these benefits, EB rates remain low, associated with certain socio-demographic, occupational, and cultural factors. Our aim was to investigate the factors associated with EB amongst Arab mothers living in Israel, focusing on how age, education, religiosity, employment status, and the number of children impact breastfeeding practices. Data were collected through surveys from 274 Arab mothers across different religious and geographical backgrounds. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and chi-square tests assessed the relationship between breastfeeding practices and various so-cio-demographic variables. We found that older maternal age, higher levels of religiosity, and an increased number of children were positively associated with EB. Employment, particularly full-time work, reduced the likelihood of EB. Muslim mothers were more likely to combine breastfeeding with formula, whereas, Christian and Druze mothers showed higher EB rates. Geographical dis-parities were also noted, with mothers from northern regions more likely to EB. The study highlights the complex interplay of socio-demographic and cultural factors impacting breastfeeding practices amongst Arab mothers in Israel, with significant implications for policy development and maternal support programs. Our findings underscore the importance of incorporating religious and cultural considerations into breastfeeding promotion strategies. Public health initiatives should target support for working mothers by advocating extended maternity leave and breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies. Furthermore, community-based interventions should engage family members to support breastfeeding mothers.