UN calls for increased support for breastfeeding mothers

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) today kicked off World Breastfeeding Week by urging increased support for breastfeeding mothers since the practice has been shown to slash deaths by more than 10 per cent in infants in developing countries.

“Breastfeeding is a key tool in improving child survival,” said Ann M. Veneman, Executive Director of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

Despite advances in the past 15 years, only 38 per cent of infants under six months of age in the poorer nations are exclusively breastfed, a practice which could curb infant mortality.

This year’s theme for the Week, which runs until 7 August, is “support for mothers,” with studies having shown that the number of months which mothers breastfeed – especially exclusively – can be extended by education and support.

The practice can cut back on the number of deaths caused by acute respiratory infection and diarrhoea, as well as other infectious diseases. It also improves mothers’ health and strengthens the bond between mother and child.

“There is a double message here: it is not enough to say that breastfeeding is an ideal source of nourishment for infants and young children; mothers also need support to make optimal breastfeeding practices a reality,” WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said.

First observed in 1992, the Week – which seeks to encourage exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life – is now observed in more than 120 countries.

Events marking the Week will be held worldwide, ranging from a rally in Bangladesh to an essay contest in Hong Kong.