Subclinical mastitis is common among ghanaian women lactating 3 to 4 months postpartum

Richmond N.O. Aryeetey, Grace S. Marquis, Leo Timms, Anna Lartey, Lucy Brakohiapa

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is an asymptomatic inflammation of mammary tissue and has been associated with lactation failure, suboptimal growth in early infancy, and increased risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV via breast milk. A rapid survey was carried out to determine the prevalence of SCM among lactating Ghanaian women between 3 and 4 months postpartum. Bilateral breast milk samples were obtained from 117 lactating women in Manya Krobo, Ghana and analyzed for sodium (Na) and potassium (K). An elevated sodium/potassium ratio (Na/K) above 1.0 was considered indicative of SCM. Overall, SCM prevalence was observed among 45.3% of the women. About 30% of the women had unilateral SCM. Na/K was associated with maternal age. The high SCM prevalence in Manya Krobo suggests the need for lactation support to reduce SCM and the risk of poor infant outcomes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)263-267
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Human Lactation
Volume24
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Breastfeeding
  • Ghana
  • Infant growth
  • Sodium/potassium ratio
  • Subclinical mastitis

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