The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of exclusive breastfeeding on disease prevention among infants as well as conflict of cultural practices among infants in Enugu East Senatorial District, Nigeria. The study utilised the descriptive research design in reporting breastfeeding practices in the study area. Multistage sampling technique was used in selecting 200 respondents from women of childbearing age (15 to 49 years). Primary data were gathered via the use of focus group discussions. Results showed that a significant number of respondents (36.5%) were yet to adopt the exclusive breastfeeding practice, which ensures that new-borns are fed only breast milk for at least 6 months. The study also found that infants under exclusive breastfeeding were diagnosed of different kinds of diseases, such as frequent headaches, dysentery, cholera, and sickle cell anaemia. Lastly, it was also found that some mothers were under obligation to conform to cultural practices of giving infants traditional foods and medications which are believed to enhance the health of the child, fortify their spirituality and secure their destiny in the future. This study concluded that cultural beliefs and practices were a formidable obstacle in the quest to promote exclusive breastfeeding, especially in rural communities. Based on the findings, the study recommended extensive and intensive campaigns involving the media practitioners, religious leaders and traditional authorities in sensitising mothers and families on the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, which include the prevention of diseases on new-borns.

Breastfeeding; Exclusive Breastfeeding; Disease Prevention; Cultural Practices; Infant Health

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