Infant health care practices-a study in three communities

A cohort of90 infants born in March 1979 in Kedah, Pahang and Malacca were followed up to find out the feeding practices, preventive health care and medical care practices during infancy. A high proportion of infants were breastfed compared to the urban population. However, early introduction of solids was very common. Parents were well aware of the immunisation schedule and attended government clinics for immunisation. However, attendance for health appraisal was not made according to schedule. Cough and cold,fever, diarrhoea, measles and skin conditions were the common ailments. Medical care for cough and cold, fever and diarrhoea was sought from general practitioners, clinics, and hospitals. Practice of buying analgesics and penicillin cream for self treatment for fever and sores was a common practice. Help was soughtfrom traditional healers for measles. Fever and diarrhoea were thought to be signs of health by some and nothing was done. Mothers were well educated on the importance of breast feeding but were not aware that introduction ofearly solids is not satisfactory. Education with regards to introduction of solids by health staff was not done timely. Health staff were mentioned as injluentials for feeding practices and immunisation, but were not mentioned for medical care. Some recommendations for infant care are also mentioned in the paper.