Breastfeeding Disparity Research
Statewide Focus Group Research | Texas WIC
The Challenge
Texas WIC identified that there were disparities in rates of breastfeeding among mothers of color compared to White mothers. Only 74% of Black mothers initiated breastfeeding, compared to 86% of Hispanic mothers and 81% of White mothers. Additionally, significant disparities in exclusive breastfeeding rates exist. To improve these rates, Texas WIC sought to identify attitudes, barriers, and cultural norms that impact exclusive breastfeeding, especially in the first month.
The Research
To explore these issues, we conducted extensive research that included one-on-one interviews, best practice research, and 40 focus groups with Black and Hispanic mothers, fathers, and grandmothers to reveal barriers to successful breastfeeding. I also held focus groups with nurses and WIC staff to hear about challenges as well as successful strategies for encouraging breastfeeding. Through this large-scale research, I explored attitudes, barriers, and themes in order to develop culturally appropriate messages, communications, and programmatic strategies that will leverage community strengths, target relevant barriers, and address racial disparities in optimal infant nutrition and care.
The Results
Based on SUMA's recommendations, WIC has:
- Expanded promotion of breastfeeding services.
- Expanded their peer dad program to educate more Texas fathers on breastfeeding.
- Commissioned new materials to address the concerns about breastfeeding voiced in the focus groups.
- Developed a new two-hour breastfeeding class for mothers and their support person (fathers, grandmothers, friends).
Get in Touch
Let's do something cool together.
You can reach me at tessa.baker@gmail.com.
