Assessment of seasonal agricultural worker mothers' knowledge level and attitudes regarding breastfeeding and transition to complementary feeding

The study was conducted to determine the knowledge and attitudes of seasonal agricultural worker mothers regarding breastfeeding and transition to complementary foods, and to identify the underlying reasons for any incorrect practices. The research is a cross-sectional study conducted on seasonal agricultural worker mothers who applied to the Eskişehir Alpu Family Health Center between March 1, 2024, and March 1, 2025, to evaluate their knowledge and attitudes regarding breastfeeding and complementary feeding. In the multivariate analysis, multiple logistic regression analysis using the Backward: Wald method was used to determine the independent risk factors associated with the mother's educational status and whether the mother had received education about breastfeeding and transition to complementary foods. In the statistical analyses, the confidence interval was set at 95%, and the significance level was set at p<0.05. The ages of the 300 mothers in the study group ranged from 18 to 53 years, with a mean (SD) of 30.52 (8.03) years. According to the multiple logistic regression analysis, mothers who obtained information from health institutions, started work after child birth, and had fewer than three children were found to have a higher level of education. Multivariate analysis shows that the factor most strongly influencing mothers' education about breastfeeding and transition to complementary foods is seeking information about breastfeeding and complementary foods from healthcare institutions. In addition, the timing of introduction of dairy products and the timing of returning to work after childbirth are also closely related to education about breastfeeding and complementary foods. The study reveals that seasonal agricultural worker mothers need support regarding breastfeeding and transition to complementary foods. Visual-based education programs tailored to the low educational level of seasonal agricultural workers should be developed. Social policies supporting delayed return to work after child birth should be developed for seasonal agricultural workers to increase their access to health services. Key Words: Seasonal agricultural worker, breast milk, complementary food