We often hear that breast milk is the best source of nutrients for babies from birth. South African mothers, however have not been breastfeeding their babies enough.
As South Africa observes Breastfeeding Awareness Week until 7 August, the Professional Board for Dietetics and Nutrition (PBSN) together with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) expresses concern that only 20 percent of babies in the country are exclusively breastfed.
A statement by the HPCSA, shows that South Africa has failed dismally in achieving an exclusive breastfeeding rate of 50% by 2025, a global expectation target endorsed by the World Health Assembly.
South Africa’s breastfeeding woes
“There is still a lot that needs to be done in South Africa to improve the rate of exclusive breastfeeding and to meet global targets. Recent data shows that in South Africa, 44% of infants were exclusively breastfed at 14 weeks in 2021/22, down from 49% in 2019/20,” said the HPCSA.
A Human Sciences Research Council Report indicates that only 20% of infants from birth to six months are exclusively breastfed in South Africa to date.
Globally, 48% of infants are breastfed, while the expected target for 2025 is 50%. The revised target for breastfeeding by 2030 is 70%.
Breastfeeding Awareness Week is an initiative planned by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA). This year’s theme is: Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems.
“A sustainable breastfeeding support system is an all-of-society approach that ensures every mother has the support, environment and resources to breastfeed successfully, from the first two years of a child’s life and beyond,” said WABA in a statement.
According to John Hopkins Medicine, breast milk is best because:
- It has healthy nutrients compared to formula which are easier to absorb and digest.
- It contains nutrients that aid successful brain growth and nervous system development, making them fare better in intelligence tests later in life.
- The fat in breastmilk develops better eyesight in babies.
- Breastmilk consumption combats infections.
- Breastfed infants do not succumb to digestive, lung and ear infections.
- Premature babies who are breastfed are not susceptible to intestine related infections.
- Babies who are prone to infection while being breastfed experience less severe symptoms.
What are your views on breastfeeding of infant babies?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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