Advancing Exclusive Breastfeeding among HIV-Positive Mothers in Low Resource Settings

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) involves giving only breastmilk without addition of any complementary foods during the first 6 months of life. Diarrhoeal diseases is the second leading cause of death in under five children globally.  On the other hand, exclusively breastfed infants have a reduced risk of gastrointestinal infections. Within the context of mother to child transmission (MTCT) of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) following birth, exclusive breastfeeding of the HIV exposed infant is the gold standard infant nutrition. New guidelines by the World Health Organisation (WHO) stipulated new approaches especially public health approach in applying the updated infant feeding. The new guidelines borders on amongst others, the duration of breastfeeding by mothers living with HIV (MLWH). It is now recommended that MLWH should breastfeed for at least 12 months and may continue breastfeeding for up to 24 months just as it is applicable in the general population or longer while being fully supported for anti-retroviral therapy (ART) adherence. Despite the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, inadequate knowledge of breastfeeding has been identified as a constraint to exclusive breastfeeding especially among HIV positive mothers in low resource settings. Exclusive breastfeeding by HIV positive mothers is imperative especially in low resource settings where malnutrition and poor environmental conditions are endemic. This will reduce infant morbidity and mortality. Non-exclusive breastfeeding, more than doubles the risk of vertical transmission of HIV and confers lesser protection against serious childhood illnesses such as diarrhoea and pneumonia compared to exclusive breastfeeding. Selection Criteria: Systematic reviews, randomised controlled trials, policy briefs, and cross-sectional studies that border on effects of exclusive and non-exclusive breastfeeding on HIV-free survival of HIV-exposed infants.