This report developed an economic model that provided the theoretical framework for the econometric analysis presented in the report's companion volume, WIC and the Retail Price of Infant Formula (FANRR No.39-1). The model examines supermarket retail prices for infant formula in a local market area and identified the theoretical effects of WIC and its infant formula rebate program.
This report presented findings from the most comprehensive national study of infant formula prices at the retail level. For a given set of wholesale prices, WIC and its infant formula rebate program resulted in modest increases in the supermarket price of infant formula, especially in states with a high percentage of WIC formula-fed infants. However, lower-priced infant formulas were available to non-WIC consumers in most areas of the country, and the number of these lower-priced alternatives was increasing over time.
Government Accountability Office examines the extent that WIC agencies have restricted the use of non-contract standard formula to lower the cost of the WIC Program.
This study looked at the relationship between maternal health and infant dietary patterns in WIC participants in Maryland. Data from 689 mother-infant pairs revealed the following: A total of 36.5% of mothers reported introducing solids to their infants early (<4 months of age), and 40% reported adding cereal to their infant's bottle. Overall, results demonstrated that maternal mental health symptoms were associated with poorer infant-feeding practices and higher infant dietary intake during the first 6 months.
This study identified barriers that deterred parents/caretakers of infants and children enrolled in the WIC Program from taking full advantage of the services provided by the program. Waiting too long was the most frequently cited barrier (48%). Difficulties in bringing the infant/child to recertify and rescheduling appointments were key variables associated with failure to use (i.e., pick up or cash) WIC checks.
The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the barriers to prenatal care for homeless pregnant women. Based on the results, 75.61% of the respondents perceived barriers to prenatal care. Site-related factors were the most significant, followed by provider ;client relationship, inconvenience, fear, and cost.
The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between newborn outcomes and late prenatal care initiation after recognition of pregnancy. Results revealed that the average time lag from pregnancy recognition to prenatal care was not associated with poor newborn outcomes.
This overview of micronutrients during pregnancy and lactation emphasized two relatively neglected issues: (1) the importance of maternal micronutrient status in the periconceptional period, as well as throughout pregnancy and lactation, and (2) the occurrence of simultaneous multiple micronutrient deficiencies when diets are poor. Unfortunately, information is lacking on the optimal formulation of micronutrient supplements for pregnant and lactating women.
This position paper looked at women of childbearing ages and the importance of maintaining good nutritional status, through a lifestyle to optimize maternal health and reduce the risk of (1) birth defects, (2) suboptimal fetal growth and development, and (3) chronic health problems in their children. Most pregnant women need 2,200 to 2,900 kcal a day. However, body mass index before pregnancy, rate of weight gain, maternal age, and appetite must be taken into consideration for each individual.
In this review, the authors summarized current knowledge on maternal nutritional requirements during pregnancy, with a focus on birth outcomes. The researchers concluded that maternal nutrition was a modifiable risk factor of public health importance that could be integrated into efforts to prevent adverse birth outcomes, particularly among economically developing/low-income populations.
