ABSTRACT
Background: Arab women‟s breastfeeding practices, including exclusive breastfeeding, are
shaped by cultural and religious values and beliefs. Many studies have investigated
breastfeeding practices among Arab mothers in their Arabic countries, but no published
studies were identified that looked at these practices in Arab women living in the United
States.
The purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore breastfeeding practices including
exclusive breastfeeding among Arab women living in the United States.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design with a convenience sample of 90 Arab
mothers was used. Participants were recruited from the Muslim Community Association of
Ann Arbor, MI; Islamic Institute of Knowledge, Dearborn, MI; Michigan Islamic Academy;
and Entesar‟s Beauty Salon, Ann Arbor, MI.
Results: The results of this study showed low levels of exclusive breastfeeding, as well as
early introduction of supplementations.
Conclusions: A health education program related to exclusive breastfeeding is needed
targeting Arab mothers in the U.S.