📖 ABSTRACT/OVERVIEW
Background: Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is endorsed by the World Health Organization as the optimal infant feeding strategy, yielding established benefits for growth and neurodevelopment. Adherence rates in Nigeria remain suboptimal despite policy support, particularly in semi-urban communities. Studies from Ondo State examining concurrent weight gain trajectories and developmental milestone attainment are limited. Objectives: This study seeks to compare weight gain velocity and attainment of selected neurodevelopmental milestones between exclusively breastfed and formula-supplemented infants in Ondo State over a six-month observational period. Methods: One hundred infants aged 0 to 6 months will be recruited at well-baby clinics in two healthcare facilities in Akure. Fifty will be exclusively breastfed and fifty formula-supplemented. Monthly weights will be measured using a calibrated infant scale. Developmental milestones will be assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. Data will be analysed using repeated measures ANOVA and chi-square tests. Expected Outcomes: Exclusively breastfed infants are anticipated to demonstrate superior weight gain trajectories and earlier attainment of motor and language milestones compared to formula-supplemented counterparts. Conclusion: Findings will contribute evidence to support exclusive breastfeeding promotion campaigns in Ondo State. Keywords: exclusive breastfeeding, infant weight gain, neurodevelopment, milestones, Ondo State.
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