This indicator measures the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months, calculated as the percentage of children in this age group who were breastfed at least six times in the 24 hours prior to the survey or interview. This metric highlights not only the immediate nutritional practices in a community but also reflects broader maternal health, support systems, and cultural attitudes towards breastfeeding. High rates of frequent breastfeeding are often associated with improved infant health outcomes, including enhanced immunity and nutritional adequacy. Conversely, lower rates may signal challenges such as inadequate maternal education, lack of resources, or societal pressures that hinder breastfeeding practices, thereby emphasizing the need for targeted public health interventions and community support initiatives.
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