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Governments Urged to Promote Breastfeeding Amid Declining Rates

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World Breastfeeding Week highlights the importance of breastfeeding for infants’ health, emphasizing that breast milk is the optimal source of nutrition for babies. While breastfeeding has been the traditional norm throughout human history, the rise of commercial baby food since the Industrial Revolution has led to a decline in breastfeeding practices, particularly in developed nations.

The global market for baby food was valued at approximately US $50.7 billion in 2014 and is projected to reach US $84 billion by 2024, with further growth anticipated, potentially hitting US $137 billion by 2034. This lucrative market has the potential to influence public perceptions, often promoting commercial baby food over the benefits of breastfeeding.

According to the World Health Organization, breastfeeding should be the exclusive source of nutrition for infants for the first six months, continuing for as long as possible, ideally until the child is one or two years old. The benefits of breastfeeding are substantial, including reduced risks of respiratory infections, diarrhea, asthma, food allergies, and type 1 diabetes in infants. Furthermore, breastfeeding can enhance cognitive development and lower the likelihood of obesity in adulthood.

For mothers, breastfeeding helps reduce postpartum blood loss and lowers the risks of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and rheumatoid arthritis in the long term. The practice typically begins within an hour after birth, with infants nursing every two to three hours. Mothers unable to breastfeed can express milk for later use, with guidelines allowing for storage at room temperature for up to six hours, in the refrigerator for up to eight days, or in the freezer for six to twelve months.

Despite the known benefits, several factors have contributed to a decline in breastfeeding rates, particularly in urbanized and developed regions. Increasing reliance on formula milk and prepared baby foods, alongside the convenience of commercial options, has shifted practices away from breastfeeding. In the Asia-Pacific region, formula milk holds a significant share of the market, accounting for over 50% of global sales.

Increasing breastfeeding rates could lead to substantial public health benefits. According to estimates, improved breastfeeding practices could save the lives of approximately 820,000 children annually and generate an additional US $302 billion in income worldwide.

In nations like India, promoting breastfeeding may be more feasible due to cultural acceptance and the lower cost of breastfeeding compared to formula. The Indian government can take several steps to enhance breastfeeding awareness and support. These include establishing a clear breastfeeding policy, training healthcare staff, and launching awareness campaigns in local languages. Innovative methods like street performances and community engagement can further promote the initiative.

Healthcare professionals should encourage new mothers to initiate breastfeeding within half an hour of birth. Support groups can provide valuable resources, helping mothers learn about expressing and storing breast milk. Additionally, mothers should be advised against using artificial teats or pacifiers, as these can interfere with breastfeeding.

In conclusion, the health benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child are undeniable, along with the broader economic advantages for society. As the commercial baby food industry continues to grow, it is crucial for governments to counteract its influence by promoting breastfeeding. Effective public health strategies can help raise awareness and support for breastfeeding practices, ensuring that infants receive the best possible start in life. As Diane Wiessinger, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, poignantly stated, “Bottles fill his stomach, but breastfeeding fills his soul.”

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