ABOUT

Due to a lack of resources and limited research infrastructure in the Eastern Cape, there is little existing data about some of the most basic indicators of quality of life in this region. The Zithulele Births Follow Up Study (ZiBFUS) gathers information about infants in the first two years of life. The study aims to build a comprehensive picture of a wide range of topics such as access to healthcare and immunizations, feeding practices, HIV status and care, social support, maternal mental health, food security, and infant disease and mortality.

The  Study

Mothers in the area who gave birth between January and April 2013 were recruited to participate in this study, and 478 mothers were ultimately enrolled. Data collectors visited participants in their homes to administer interview-style surveys at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 month intervals for each mother. The results are currently complete and being evaluated for publication.

Sample  Findings 

  • 99% of mothers received antenatal care
  • 63% of babies are unplanned
  • 80% of mothers are unemployed and 4% are employed
  • 16% of mothers are in school
  • 29% of mothers are HIV-positive
  • 92% are receiving government grants
  • 59% of mothers planned to exclusively breastfeed; at 3 months, only 22% of mothers were exclusively breastfeeding
  • 66% of mothers formula feeding their babies added Nestum or baby porridge to the formula