Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) Krishna district branch president M.A. Rahman and Secretary P.S.N. Murthy asserted that breastfeeding was one of the most important determinants of child health, development, nutrition and survival.
With emphasis on these factors, IAP district branch is organising various programmes as part of the World Breastfeeding Week from August 1 to 7.
They stated in a press release that breastfeeding was an established and well-recommended intervention for the improvement of child nutrition.
Studies have shown that breastfeeding in the first hour of birth decreases neonatal deaths by 22 per cent. Breastfeeding for the first six months of life prevents morbidity and mortality due to diarrhoea and pneumonia.
Optimal breastfeeding prevents malnutrition, overweight and obesity and also increased IQ.
Demands
The IAP has come up with four demands in connection with World Breastfeeding Week. They are six months’ maternity leave for all working women across all sectors, one or more paid breastfeeding breaks and flexible working hours/schedules, proper implementation of infant and child care at work places (baby care centres and crèches) and facilities for storing breast milk. Maternity protection status in India has come down from 5 to 3.5 on a scale of 10 in the last seven years showing the poor level of care for the babies and the mothers’ own health, the IAP office-bearers observed.
Maternity protection status in India has come down from 5 to 3.5 on a scale of 10 in the last seven years
