Hypocalcaemia and Its Associated Risk Factors among Breastfeeding Mothers Attending Kueka Medical Health Centre, Foumban, Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding is a vital practice for child survival and development, yet it imposes significant nutritional demands on mothers and also affects their health. One key concern is calcium depletion, which may predispose mothers to hypocalcaemia, affecting both maternal and infant health. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of hypocalcaemia and its associated risk factors among breastfeeding mothers attending Kueka Medical Health Centre, Foumban, Cameroon. Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between March and May 2023. Sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric history, and breastfeeding practices were collected using standardized questionnaires. Venous blood samples were obtained, and serum total calcium levels were measured using an automated spectrophotometer. Associations between hypocalcaemia and selected variables were evaluated using the chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The recorded prevalence of hypocalcaemia was 68.0% (68/100). Body mass index was significantly associated with hypocalcaemia (p = 0.016), with the highest prevalence observed among underweight mothers (76.5%), followed by overweight/obese mothers (75.0%) and mothers with normal BMI (43.5%). Alcohol consumption was also significantly associated with hypocalcaemia (p < 0.001). The mode of delivery showed a significant association (p < 0.001), with hypocalcaemia being more common among mothers who delivered vaginally than among those who underwent caesarean section. Conclusion: Hypocalcaemia was highly prevalent among breastfeeding mothers in this study, particularly among underweight, single, young, and rural women. Body mass index, alcohol consumption, and mode of delivery were significantly associated with hypocalcaemia. These findings highlight the need for routine nutritional screening, targeted dietary counselling, and interventions to improve maternal calcium status during lactation, particularly among nutritionally vulnerable women.