ACCULTURATION AND BREAST-FEEDING ON THE UNITED-STATES-MEXICO BORDER

Previous studies have demonstrated a strong association between breast feeding incidence and ethnic background, indicating the presence of st rong cultural influences on infant-feeding patterns within ethnic grou ps. This study analyzed the relationship of acculturation into the Uni ted States, one aspect of ethnicity, to the initiation of breastfeedin g among a sample of 213 women recruited approximately 2 months prenata lly in the United States-Mexico border city of Brownsville, Texas. An in-depth, structured interview was conducted at that time (n = 213), a t the time of birth (n = 207), and 2 to 3 weeks postnatally (n = 206). In addition, male partners of the mothers were interviewed prenatally when available (n = 119). Acculturation scores and demographic charac teristics were tested relative to breastfeeding initiation. The degree of acculturation, age, and marital status were associated significant ly with breastfeeding initiation (with breastfeeding continued at 2 to 3 weeks postnatally), but occupational status, education, and income were not. Breastfeeding incidence was highest among older, married, or low-acculturated, Anglo mothers. These data suggest that women being assimilated into the United States are inhibited in the initiation of breastfeeding. These findings suggest that to be successful, intervent ion programs to increase breastfeeding incidence must consider the cul tural adaptation of different groups as they meld with the larger popu lation.