SPATIAL ANALYSIS OF EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING COVERAGE AND SOCIO-HEALTH DETERMINANTS IN MUARAENIM REGENCY, INDONESIA

ABSTRACT Background Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months is a cornerstone of child survival, yet its coverage remains uneven across regions in Indonesia. Methods This study examined the spatial distribution of EBF coverage alongside maternal and service-related characteristics in Muara Enim Regency using a quantitative descriptive spatial approach. Secondary data from 1,267 mothers with children under five years of age in the Gelumbang, Lembak, and Kelekar sub-districts were analyzed using QGIS. The variables included EBF coverage, early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) coverage, maternal employment status, maternal education level, and place of delivery. Spatial visualization was conducted through pie diagram mapping and overlay techniques at the village and sub-district levels. Results The findings revealed clear geographic disparities in EBF coverage. Spatial overlays showed that differences in EIBF practices, maternal education, employment status, and place of delivery were not consistently aligned with areas of higher EBF coverage. Conclusion These findings underscore the relevance of incorporating spatial perspectives into public health planning to address disparities in breastfeeding practices.