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 language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 263-267 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Journal of Human Lactation |
Volume | 24 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Aug 2008 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Breastfeeding
- Ghana
- Infant growth
- Sodium/potassium ratio
- Subclinical mastitis