Enhancing Breastfeeding Outcomes through Digital Phenotyping

Project Summary/Abstract: This research proposal responds to the pressing need for comprehensive understanding and targeted support in breastfeeding outcomes, an area significantly impacting child health and development. Despite the recognized importance of breastfeeding, existing clinical practices often overlook the intricate interplay of maternal lifestyle

and behavior. Mothers face diverse challenges including return to work, inconsistent milk supply, lack of support, and postpartum mental stress, all of which profoundly influence breastfeeding success and subsequently, the well-being of the child. Although national recommendations advocate exclusive breastfeeding for the initial six

months of a child's life, the actual compliance, as reported by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, is less than 25%. This study takes a digital phenotyping approach by harnessing passive longitudinal monitoring, facilitated through smartphones, smartwatches, and ecological momentary assessments (EMAs). By examining

physiological components such as sleep, exercise, and vitals through smartwatches, alongside behavioral patterns encompassing mobility, screen time, and social support via smartphones, we intend to identify lifestyle factors during the third trimester impacting breastfeeding outcomes. A pivotal aspect of this research lies in its

ability to bridge the existing knowledge gap by delving into the multifaceted aspects of maternal well-being, mood, lifestyle, mental health, and social support during the critical period of the third trimester to postpartum. To our knowledge, this is the first study of its kind to focus on breastfeeding outcomes.

We seek to modify and implement a culturally adapted digital phenotyping protocol tailored for first-time mothers. Through rigorous data collection, encompassing both the objective data from wearables and mobile devices and subjective self-reports, we aim to understand the nuanced dynamics affecting breastfeeding success. This

research, anchored in innovative technology and supported by a team with extensive expertise in maternal health and behavioral science, is poised to transform breastfeeding support. By offering novel insights, our findings will inform future research endeavors and pave the way for personalized interventions, thereby enhancing

breastfeeding success and ultimately contributing to the improved health and development of children.