Differences in Breastfeeding Rates Among African Americans, Black Immigrants, and Hispanic Black Individuals Compared to Other Race/Ethnicity Groups for Infants Born Between 2011 and 2022, United States.

Abstract

<b>Objectives.</b> To compare breastfeeding initiation (BFI), breastfeeding duration, and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) of Black subgroups and other race groups in the United States. <b>Methods.</b> We analyzed National Survey of Child Health data for infants born between 2011 and 2022 (n = 89 067). Multivariable generalized linear models identified determinants of BFI, duration, and EBF (6 months). <b>Results.</b> African Americans (i.e., non-Hispanic Black Americans) had significantly lower breastfeeding rates compared with other race/ethnicity groups; Black immigrants had among the highest rates. BFI was significantly lower for African Americans (58.5%) and Hispanic Black (78.5%) individuals, and significantly higher for Black immigrants (88.8%) compared with non-Hispanic White persons (84.1%). Among those who initiated, African Americans and Hispanic Black individuals had lower duration rates. <b>Conclusions.</b> African Americans were the only group with BFI rates below the Healthy People 2020 goal; Black immigrants were above the goal. That Hispanic Black individuals had lower rates compared with Hispanic persons who are not Black suggests the potential impact of structural and medical racism on health behaviors. The results underscore the importance of differentiating Black subgroups in public health practice and research. (<i>Am J Public Health</i>. 2025;115(11):1938-1941. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2025.308242).