Release – Breastfeeding is increasingly recognized as vital for child nutrition, health, and survival. It is essential that breastfeeding initiatives are protected, promoted, and supported both regionally and globally.
Research indicates that breastfeeding significantly lowers the risks of both undernutrition and overnutrition, as well as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) for mothers and children alike. Infants who are breastfed for extended periods face a 13% reduced risk of overweight and obesity and a 35% reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, breastfeeding mothers experience lower risks of postpartum weight gain, type 2 diabetes (by 32%), ovarian cancer (by 37%), and breast cancer (by 26%). Conversely, infants who are not breastfed are more susceptible to malnutrition, diarrheal disease, acute respiratory infections, and even mortality.
In observance of World Breastfeeding Week from August 1-7, 2024, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is collaborating with partners to emphasize this year’s theme: “Closing the Gap, Breastfeeding Support for All.”
Dr. Lisa Indar, Ad Interim Executive Director at CARPHA, highlights the challenge of insufficient support for breastfeeding mothers, whether at home, in their communities, or in the workplace. This year’s initiative aims to enhance breastfeeding support systems, addressing inequalities and focusing on breastfeeding in emergency situations.
During emergencies—be they natural disasters, humanitarian crises, or public health challenges—breastfeeding becomes even more critical. Breastmilk provides balanced nutrition and protective qualities essential for infants during such times when infections are prevalent.
“Mothers face significant challenges to breastfeeding in emergencies, including displacement, food insecurity, and limited access to clean water and healthcare services. Therefore, it is vital that breastfeeding protection, promotion, and support becomes standard practice in both emergency and non-emergency contexts. This assurance safeguards the rights and well-being of mothers and their children,” stated Dr. Heather Armstrong, Head of Chronic Disease and Injury at CARPHA.
Comprehensive support for breastfeeding mothers must come from society as a whole. Policymakers should introduce laws that create breastfeeding-friendly environments in all public spaces, including workplaces, by providing parental leave, designated breastfeeding areas, and facilities for milk expression and storage.
To further the protection and promotion of breastfeeding, CARPHA will engage with Member States to establish comprehensive national policies on infant and young child feeding. These policies will include guidelines for appropriate infant feeding in emergencies.
Moreover, CARPHA has facilitated training for health professionals through the WHO/UNICEF 40-Hour Breastfeeding Counselling Course and the 20-Hour Course for the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative. The agency has also assisted Member States in developing national policies on infant and young child feeding and hospital breastfeeding policies, along with guidelines for the care of newborns and lactating women in the context of COVID-19.
CARPHA urges Member States to adopt a whole-of-society strategy to bolster breastfeeding support while adhering to the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes and the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. By fortifying breastfeeding practices, we safeguard human rights and make significant strides toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that no one is left behind in the post-pandemic landscape.
