Knowledge, attitudes and practices of health professionals regarding the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding: a case study of the Lubilanji Health Zone in Eastern Kasai, 2024

Background Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is defined as feeding an infant solely with breast milk for the first six months, without additional food or drink except for medical prescriptions. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of healthcare professionals regarding EBF in the Lubilanji health zone, Kasaï Oriental, Democratic Republic of Congo. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2025 among 155 healthcare professionals selected through a three-stage probabilistic sampling method. The dependent variable was the triad of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to EBF. Results Respondents were mainly aged 33–42, married (90%), and highly educated (55%). Nurses comprised 60%, and more than half resided outside the health zone (54%). Nearly all (99%) had prior information on EBF, primarily from healthcare staff (83%). Knowledge levels varied: 50% had average knowledge, 27% excellent, and 6% poor. Physicians demonstrated stronger knowledge but less favorable attitudes, while midwives showed greater adherence and nurses reported weaker practices, often constrained by workload and limited institutional support. Although 71% strongly supported EBF, one-quarter expressed unfavorable attitudes. Practices were polarized, with 43% rated very good and 32% poor, revealing a gap between awareness and consistent implementation. Conclusions Barriers to optimal EBF extend beyond information, involving counseling skills, resource limitations, and system-level constraints such as lack of educational tools and workplace support. Strengthening continuing education, providing practical counseling resources, and adapting health facility environments are essential to translate knowledge into sustained practice.