Promoting breast feeding

Citation

(1999), "Promoting breast feeding", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 99 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/nfs.1999.01799bab.002

Promoting breast feeding

Promoting breast feeding

The UK has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in Europe, only 66 per cent at birth compared to rates of nearly 100 per cent in Scandinavia. Rates fall dramatically in the early weeks and by four months just 27 per cent of UK babies are breastfed. Rates also vary significantly across different regions of the UK and by social class. Many mothers who give up cite lack of support with problems that with the right advice and encouragement could be overcome. A new programme to promote and support breastfeeding in the community has been launched by the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative. This sets out points of good practice which it is encouraging GP sugeries, health clinics, community midwives and health visitors to implement. Plans for community initiatives have been developed in response to enthusiastic calls from health professionals and mother support organisations for good breastfeeding practice to be shared. Breastfeeding protects babies against gastro-enteritis and ear and chest infections. It is also associated with lower risks of eczema, wheezing and childhood diabetes. Mothers who breastfeed are at lower risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer and hip fractures in later life.