The World Breastfeeding Week, observed annually from August 1 to 7, serves as a critical opportunity to spotlight the life-saving benefits of breastfeeding and advocate for better practices and policies to support nursing mothers worldwide. Celebrated since 1992, this event unites over 120 countries under the aegis of the United Nations Children’s Fund, World Health Organisation, and their partners to promote breastfeeding as a fundamental element of child health and development.
Breastfeeding, particularly exclusive breastfeeding, is a cornerstone of infant nutrition and health.
Defined as providing only breast milk from birth until six months of age, exclusive breastfeeding ensures that infants receive all the necessary nutrients and immunological protection without the need for water, supplements, or alternative feeds. Its benefits are far-reaching, extending to both maternal and child health, and its role in public health is well-documented.
The advantages of breastfeeding are profound. Breast milk is a complete source of nutrition that supports optimal growth and development in infants, protecting them against a range of illnesses such as respiratory infections, diarrhea, and even sudden infant death syndrome. Beyond infancy, breastfeeding reduces the risk of chronic diseases later in life, including obesity and diabetes.
For mothers, the benefits are equally significant. Breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, accelerates postpartum recovery, and offers natural family planning benefits. The WHO and UNICEF highlight that breastfeeding contributes to a reduction in global economic losses related to cognitive deficits and health care costs, underscoring its value as a preventive health measure.
Despite the established benefits, Nigeria faces a persistent challenge with low breastfeeding rates. According to the National Nutrition and Health Survey of 2014, the national exclusive breastfeeding rate stands at a modest 25 percent with considerable regional disparities. The North West reports the lowest rate at 10 percent, while the South West leads with 39 percent. Other regions fall in between, with varying rates reflective of local practices and socio-economic conditions.
Several factors contribute to this low rate. Women in Nigeria, particularly those in the workplace, often lack adequate maternal protection, including sufficient maternity leave.
Hormonal challenges, societal expectations, and insufficient family support further complicate the practice of exclusive breastfeeding. The issue of maternity leave is particularly pertinent; a six-month leave period could significantly enhance the ability of mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding, promoting better health outcomes for both mothers and babies.
Recent efforts in Nigeria underscore the importance of improving breastfeeding practices. In Lagos State, significant strides have been made. The General Hospital Somolu, as part of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week celebrations, organized a health talk focusing on the theme “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All.” Dr. Mustapha Adebola Quadri, the Medical Director of the hospital, reiterated the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, emphasising its role in enhancing infant immunity and aiding maternal health.
Similarly, Epe General Hospital highlighted the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding through a joint event organized by its Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics, Infant and Child Welfare, and Pediatrics. The Apex Nurse, Arolake Azeez, and Dietitian Oluwaseun Faulkner provided practical advice on breastfeeding and nutrition, while Dr. Olubusayo Babatunde, a Consultant Paediatrician, discussed the critical health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding.
The Lagos State Government has also made significant advancements. Dr. Olufemi Aletan, Medical Director/CEO of the General Hospital Ijede, emphasised the State’s commitment to promoting exclusive breastfeeding through a mandatory six-month maternity leave for civil servants. This initiative aligns with the advocacy of Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, who supports breastfeeding as a fundamental aspect of maternal and child health.
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Lagos State’s approach serves as a model for other regions, demonstrating the impact of supportive policies on breastfeeding rates. The State has also planned a large-scale breastfeeding campaign, mobilizing over 36,000 women to participate in breastfeeding activities during World Breastfeeding Week. This campaign aims to raise awareness and support breastfeeding practices across various sectors, including workplaces, communities, and health facilities.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, highlighted the integration of breastfeeding advocacy with broader maternal and child health initiatives. The alignment of the World Breastfeeding Week with the Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health Plus Nutrition (MNCAH+N) Week emphasises a comprehensive approach to improving health outcomes for mothers and children.
The theme for this year’s World Breastfeeding Week: “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All,” reflects the need for a collective effort to address barriers to breastfeeding. Support must extend beyond health care professionals to include families, employers, community leaders, and policymakers. Creating an environment where breastfeeding is supported and encouraged requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both practical and cultural challenges.
Investments in policies that provide adequate maternity leave, workplace support, and educational programs for mothers are essential. Furthermore, combating the marketing of breast-milk substitutes and ensuring adherence to international breastfeeding codes are critical to protecting breastfeeding practices.
Breastfeeding is not just a personal choice but a public health imperative. Its benefits extend far beyond the individual to impact societal health and economic stability. As Nigeria continues to tackle its breastfeeding challenges, the collective efforts of governments, health organisations and communities will play a crucial role in bridging the gap and ensuring that every mother has the support she needs to provide the best start for her child.
The 2024 World Breastfeeding Week offers a renewed opportunity to commit to these goals and advocate for practices and policies that support exclusive breastfeeding. By addressing the gaps and strengthening support systems, Nigeria can enhance its public health outcomes and contribute to the well-being of future generations.
. Musbau is Deputy Director in the Public Affairs Unit, Lagos State Infrastructure Asset Management Agency, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State.
