A national survey of infant feeding in Asian families: summary of findings relevant to oral health.

In 1994 the Department of Health commissioned a survey of early feeding practices within the Asian community. The survey conducted by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) was designed to assess from a nationally representative sample of infants from the Bangladeshi, Indian and Pakistani communities from across England their feeding practices from birth to 15 months. A small sample of White infants were also included in the sample although they cannot be considered as nationally representative of the majority White population in England. Data was collected from 2382 mothers in total. The survey was carried out between 1994 and 1996 and was published in 1997. This article will summarise the main findings relevant to oral health. These include patterns of breastfeeding, use of bottles, care and advice on infant feeding, weaning practices and drinks consumption. Implications for oral health promotion are considered.