Optimal Complementary Feeding Practices and Determinants among 6-23 Months Aged Children's Mothers in Kedida Gamela District and Durame Town, Southern Ethiopia: Cross-Sectional Comparative Study

Background:For children to grow and develop to their full potential, the first 2 years of life are critical. Infectious disease incidence and associated mortality can be reduced by optimal complementary feeding practices. Studies on these practices and determinants, however, are few in this field. The purpose of this study is to close this information gap. Methods:Between January 15 and February 15, 2021, 565 mothers of children ages 6 to 23 months participated in a community-based comparative cross-sectional study in Durame town and Kedida Gamela district. Structured questionnaires were used to gather data through in-person interviews, and SPSS Version 25 was used for analysis. Determinants of complementary feeding practices were identified through bivariate and multivariable logistic regression, utilizing adjusted odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval p value 0.05. Results:Complementary feeding practice magnitudes in rural and urban areas were 13.1% and 25.1%, respectively. The mother's knowledge of good complementary feeding (AOR = 5.13, 95% CI: 1.68, 15.65) and household food insecurity (AOR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.4, 8.75) was associated with optimal complementary feeding practices in rural areas, while child age (AOR = 3.57, 95% CI: 1.08, 11.805), postnatal care (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.28, 5.16), and the mother's awareness about complementary feeding practices (AOR = 4.5, 95% CI: 1.13, 14.17) were associated with good complementary feeding practices in urban settings. Conclusion and Recommendation:In comparison with rural areas, the magnitude of optimal complementary feeding practice is significantly higher in urban areas. Integration of nutrition education and infant and young child feeding into maternal and child health services is essential to improving child feeding practices.