Exclusive breastfeeding in southern Brazil: prevalence and associated factors.

Background: Worldwide strategies have been conducted in order to guarantee longer periods of exclusive breastfeeding for most children, especially those from developing countries. The evaluation of infant feeding practices and the identification of weaning risk factors are essential for public health policy planning.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in Joinville, the biggest city of Santa Catarina State in the southern Brazilian region.