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WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK (WBC)

By Monsurah Ahmad
August 26, 2023

World Breastfeeding Week is one of the most extensive joint campaigns undertaken by international organisations such as The World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and many Ministries of Health and civil society partners. Organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), it aims to promote the benefits of Breastfeeding.

This year's theme is, “Enabling Breastfeeding - making a Difference for working parents”. The essence of this theme lies in fostering a nurturing and inclusive work environment for working mothers. By providing lactation rooms, flexible schedules, paid lactation breaks, and breastfeeding support, employers demonstrate their commitment to the well-being and health of their employees. This proactive approach improves employee retention and productivity. It reflects a company's dedication to social responsibility, diversity, and creating a positive public image.

SIGNIFICANCE OF BREASTFEEDING

Breastfeeding is an age-old practice that predates civilisation itself. The significance of Breastfeeding lies in its unparalleled ability to provide infants with complete nourishment. Breast milk contains a perfect balance of nutrients, antibodies, and hormones that support the baby's growth, development, and immune system. Breastfeeding is an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and naturally sourced nourishment and sustenance with minimal resource impact. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the WHO recommend feeding a baby only breast milk for the first six months. After that, breastfeeding can continue while introducing other types of food that are right for their age until they are two years old or older.

IMPORTANCE OF BREASTFEEDING TO CHILDREN

  1. Breastfeeding lowers a child's risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
  2. The polyunsaturated fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is present in breast milk, aids in the correct development of the brain.
  3. Breastfeeding lowers a child’s risk of acquiring diabetes because breast milk does not contain artificial sugar.
  4. First, milk, or colostrum, contains significant levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and several other antibodies. IgA protects a baby from getting sick by forming a protective layer in the baby's nose, throat, and digestive. Babies' immune systems are not covered by formula.
  5. The nutrients in breast milk support a baby's brain development, cognitive function, and overall growth, contributing to a healthy start in life.
  6. Breastfeeding fosters an emotional bond between mother and child, providing comfort and security.

IMPORTANCE OF BREASTFEEDING TO MOTHERS

  1. Breastfeeding lowers a mother's risk of ovarian and breast cancers.
  2. Breastfeeding stimulates the release of the hormone oxytocin, which shrinks the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size.
  3. Breastfeeding allows for a steady reduction in pregnancy hormones, which lowers the risk of postpartum depression while simultaneously burning calories and using stored fat to generate breast milk.

NO BREASTFEEDING?

  • Research has shown a significant association between the absence of Breastfeeding in children and increased susceptibility to various health conditions. Notably, non-breastfed children are more likely to develop leukaemia, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, obesity, and sudden infant death syndrome.
  • Furthermore, not Breastfeeding has been linked to elevated mortality rates related to respiratory infections and infectious disorders.
  • Opting not to breastfeed may also have adverse implications for maternal well-being. Women who are unable to, or who choose not to breastfeed are at higher risk of experiencing conditions such as premenopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer, persistent post-pregnancy weight gain, and type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSION

The UNICEF and WHO have jointly identified Breastfeeding as a crucial step towards reaching SDGs 2, 3, 4, and 5; breastfeeding practices and their effects on infant survival health are an undeniable cause for concern worldwide. By encouraging Breastfeeding, we can improve nutrition (SDG 2), enhance child health and well-being (SDG 3), ensure inclusive and equitable education (SDG 4), and promote gender equality and women's empowerment (SDG 5), by allowing them to balance work and family life while providing optimal nutrition for their babies.

REFERENCES

  • C. Victora, R. Bahl, A Barros, G.V.A Franca, S. Horton, J. Krasevec, S. Murch, M. J. Sankar, N. Walker, and N. C. Rollins. 2016. "Breastfeeding in the 21st Century: Epidemiology, Mechanisms and Lifelong Effect."
  • Westerfield KL, Koenig K, Oh R. Breastfeeding: Common Questions and Answers. Am Fam Physician. 2018 Sep 15;98(6):368-373. PMID: 30215910.
  • Alison M. Stuebe: The risks of not breastfeeding for mothers and infants. October 2009Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology 2(4):222-31
  • Breastfeeding vs. Formula: The Pros and Cons. Retrieved from; https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/breastfeeding-pros-and-cons