Sub-optimal Breastfeeding Practices Among Women Having 24-59 Months Age Children in Dessie Zuria Woreda, Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract Background Sub-optimal breastfeeding practice is a very important contributor to newborn and young child mortality in developing world including Ethiopia. Early and rapid quiting of breast-feeding, then by a commencement of unclean, unsound formula provision of children with very light milk contents is familiar in LMICs which results thousands of infant death. This study focused on assessing sub-optimal breastfeeding practice and determinant factors among women having 24–59 months age child in Dessie zuria woreda, Northwest Ethiopia.Methods A community based cross-sectional study design was carried out from October 21 to November 25, 2019 in Dessie Zuria Woreda Data collected from a sample of 346 respondents using simple random sampling technique to select participants of the study. Binary and Multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify predictors of suboptimal breast feeding practice using AOR with P-value < 0.05, and at 95% CI.Result Three hundred forty six participants completed the questionnaire making the response rate 98%. The overall suboptimal breastfeeding was found 46.3% at 95% CI (42.3%-50.7%). Maternal illiteracy level, number of ANC visit, use of radio and counseling during ANC visit were found preventive factors for sub-optimal breast feeding practice in the study areaConclusion The prevalence of sub-optimal breast feeding was found high magnitude. Four predictor variables that possibly reduce sub-optimal breastfeeding practice which demands an intervention by the policy makers, health care managers and health workers at each level of the health system.