Impact-Evaluation of Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative: Case Study of Bassa LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Study aimed to evaluate the impact of impact of BFHI on the world, especially at the grassroots, through Level of awareness, Influence and Effect. A total of 450 women were studied between the months of March and November 2010 in Bassa LGA in Plateau State, Nigeria. Relatively high level mere-awareness of BFHI X(23.5); SD (0.036), opinion about effect on lactating mothers X (82.8); SD (0.36) and willingness to practice and campaign X (54.6); SD (0.143) respectively are positive indicators, despite strong negative factors on idea about BFHI duration X (19.9); SD (1.2). However, relatively high level of awareness of BFHI has little influence and thus, commensurate little effect on the women. The fact that the third world countries still see BFHI and EBF practice as an idea of the developed world confirms ineffective communication as a major impediment to appreciable positive effect.