Assessment of the Indications and Practices of Medical Formula Use in Infants Less Than One Year in Tikrit City in Iraq

Background: Infant feeding is one of the most critical factors in growth, development and health in the first year of life. While breast feeding is the ideal choice for infant nutrition, some medical situations require specialized medical formulas when infant nutritional needs are unique, or when medical problems make it difficult to breast feed. The correct selection, preparation, administration, and handling of medical formulas are thus significant factors in infant's health and nutrition. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the indications and practices of the use of medical formulas by babies under one year in Tikrit City, Iraq. Design: The convenience sampling method was used to select the participants. Data was gathered by direct questioning of mothers using a structure of a questionnaire with mainly closed questions. The data collected comprised infant demographic characteristics, maternal characteristics, indications for medical formula use, bottle sterilization methods, formula preparation practices, formula type and length of use, allergic reactions and clinical response. Results: Females made up 52.9% of the study population and 57% of the infants were urban dwellers. The majority of mothers was literate (71.5%) and without a job (78.5%). About 74.2% of infants received immunizations as per the Iraqi immunization schedule. Medical advice, most commonly, was the primary reason for starting medical formula use (57%). The most common method of sterilization bottle (71%) and 97.1% of mothers used one scoop of formula powder per ounce of water. The most common indications for medical formula use were prematurity or immature infants (31%) and acute or chronic diarrhea (29%). The most common type of formulas used was lactose-free (44%). Eighty-six percent of the infants were reported to improve clinically after using formula. Conclusions: Maternal and infant related factors, such as maternal education, attitudes, place of residence and medical advice were influential in the use and preparation of medical formulas among infants. Some of the feeding practices were found suitable, but ongoing education about the safe preparation of medical formulas and their use is still relevant.