DOI: 10.20518/tjph.1944690 ISSN: 1304-1088

Health literacy and breastfeeding self-efficacy: Clarity needed beyond correlation

Shristi Verma, S Adithya Prasad, Chaitali Borgaonkar
Show PDF Cite
Objective: To critically appraise methodological, reporting, and interpretational aspects of a recent study examining the association between health literacy (HL) and breastfeeding self-efficacy (BSE) among postpartum mothers. Methods: A structured review of the published article was conducted focusing on conceptual clarity, statistical methodology, data presentation, and generalisability. Specific attention was given to the framing of key constructs, completeness of tabular reporting, regression modelling strategy, and consideration of potential biases. Results: A misleading conceptual statement was identified in the Introduction, where HL was incorrectly implied to increase pregnancy-related risks. Table 2 demonstrated inconsistencies, including missing subgroup sample sizes and percentages, limiting reproducibility. The regression analysis incorporated BSE as both an independent and dependent variable across models, raising concerns of endogeneity and circular interpretation. Additionally, the use of single-site, short-duration convenience sampling without adequate discussion of selection bias restricts generalisability. Several typographical and formatting errors were also noted, affecting overall clarity. Conclusions: While the study contributes to the growing body of literature on maternal HL and breastfeeding behaviour in the early postpartum period, addressing the identified conceptual, methodological, and reporting issues would enhance the validity, interpretability, and public health applicability of the findings.

More from our Archive