Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Breastfeeding Among African American Mothers
Abstract
Breastfeeding is associated with numerous health benefits for both mothers and infants, yet African American mothers experience disproportionately low breastfeeding initiation rates compared to other groups. These disparities are complex and influenced by a variety of factors, including the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). ACEs are known to shape health behaviors and outcomes, often extending into adulthood and influencing maternal practices. This research aims to examine the effects of ACEs on breastfeeding behaviors among African American mothers in Georgia through an epidemiological approach.
Methods: Using secondary data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and breastfeeding data from CDC Wonder, this study focuses on African American women aged 18 and above in Georgia. The study applies binary logistic regression and ANCOVA to determine the relationship between ACEs and breastfeeding outcomes. Statistical analyses are performed using SPSS for Windows.
Results: Findings indicate no statistically significant differences in breastfeeding behavior based on ACE scores or by regional demographics among African American mothers in Georgia. The study’s analysis highlights challenges faced by this population, regardless of location or exposure to childhood trauma.
Conclusion: This study underscores the role of ACEs in breastfeeding outcomes for African American mothers and contributes new insights into the social and health disparities affecting maternal practices. By highlighting relationship between ACEs and breastfeeding behaviors, the findings suggest that more comprehensive strategies may be required to improve breastfeeding rates, which may include addressing other structural and social determinants of health beyond childhood adversity. Ultimately, this research provides a foundation for public health efforts aimed at reducing disparities in breastfeeding initiation and promoting better maternal and child health outcomes in underserved communities.
Keywords: African American mothers, breastfeeding disparities, adverse childhood experiences, maternal health, Georgia, epidemiological study, public health disparities.
Keywords
African American mothers, breastfeeding disparities, adverse childhood experiences, maternal health, Georgia, epidemiological study, public health disparities.
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Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Breastfeeding Among African American Mothers
Breastfeeding is associated with numerous health benefits for both mothers and infants, yet African American mothers experience disproportionately low breastfeeding initiation rates compared to other groups. These disparities are complex and influenced by a variety of factors, including the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). ACEs are known to shape health behaviors and outcomes, often extending into adulthood and influencing maternal practices. This research aims to examine the effects of ACEs on breastfeeding behaviors among African American mothers in Georgia through an epidemiological approach.
Methods: Using secondary data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and breastfeeding data from CDC Wonder, this study focuses on African American women aged 18 and above in Georgia. The study applies binary logistic regression and ANCOVA to determine the relationship between ACEs and breastfeeding outcomes. Statistical analyses are performed using SPSS for Windows.
Results: Findings indicate no statistically significant differences in breastfeeding behavior based on ACE scores or by regional demographics among African American mothers in Georgia. The study’s analysis highlights challenges faced by this population, regardless of location or exposure to childhood trauma.
Conclusion: This study underscores the role of ACEs in breastfeeding outcomes for African American mothers and contributes new insights into the social and health disparities affecting maternal practices. By highlighting relationship between ACEs and breastfeeding behaviors, the findings suggest that more comprehensive strategies may be required to improve breastfeeding rates, which may include addressing other structural and social determinants of health beyond childhood adversity. Ultimately, this research provides a foundation for public health efforts aimed at reducing disparities in breastfeeding initiation and promoting better maternal and child health outcomes in underserved communities.
Keywords: African American mothers, breastfeeding disparities, adverse childhood experiences, maternal health, Georgia, epidemiological study, public health disparities.
