Knowledge, Attitude and Approach Of Medical Interns of Tamil Nadu Regarding Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Infant and Young Child Feeding is essential for promoting optimal growth, development and survival during the critical early years of life. Improper feeding habits substantially contribute to malnutrition, resulting in stunting, wasting and high child death rates. Medical interns, as future healthcare providers, are essential in promoting optimal IYCF practices. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and Approach of medical interns in Tamil Nadu about Infant and Young Child Feeding. A cross sectional study was conducted among 970 medical interns of various government, self-financing and private medical colleges in Tamil Nadu. Snowball sampling was employed to collect the data. A semi structured validated questionnaire to assess the knowExponential Non-Discriminative ledge, attitude and practice of Infant and Young Child Feeding, was distributed via online messaging services using Google forms. The data was analysed using Jamovi. The total participants were 970 medical interns with mean age 23.73±1.35. The study reveals Good knowledge (60.52%), positive attitudes (52.89%) and suboptimal practices (52.68%) regarding IYCF among medical interns in Tamil Nadu. Significant association between gender and KAP scores, with females performing better across all domains. Marital status was positively associated with knowledge. Integrating IYCF-focused modules, practical workshops and digital learning tools into medical education, future healthcare providers can be better prepared to promote optimal feeding practice during the first 2 years of a child’s life, contributing to improved child health outcomes in India.