*The following is not a criticism of women and other parents and their feeding choices.*
The Lancet recently published its excellent new series of research reports on breastfeeding globally. It calls on governments and policy makers to prioritise the needs of mothers, other parents and babies.
And it contains some very stark information (please note, when the report states breastfeeding, chestfeeding is also included):
???? It is society’s collective responsibility, not just women.
???? “Women should be empowered to make choices about infant feeding which are informed by accurate information free from industryinfluence,” stated Dr Nigel Rollins, paediatrician at the World Health Organisation and co-author of the report.
???? An estimated USD 341.3 billion per year is lost globally from unrealised benefit to health and human development because of inadequate investment in protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding.
???? Fewer than 1 in 2 babies are put to the breast/chest in the hours after birth.
???? Healthcare systems need to prioritise women-centred and culturally appropriate breastfeeding care and support from pregnancy.
???? Empowering parents and families to breastfeed their children for as long as they wish.
???? Training providers and families on baby behaviours after birth to prevent…the early introduction of infant formula, as both practices shorten the duration of breastfeeding.
Those of us in the Healthcare and Parenting world see time and again that infant formula is an industry that deploys a system that is strategic, deliberate and very well resourced. It turns the birth of an infant and the care of parents into a business opportunity. Logically, and obviously, this undermines breastfeeding and women’s and human rights.
We’re here to help change the narrative with inclusive, innovative and empathetic support for all parents, and especially those who choose to breastfeed or chestfeed.
Take a look at the full set of research and reports here and let us know what you think.
